The full speech of the LSSTF Board Chairman, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi Etti at the groundbreaking ceremony of the LSSTF HQ building
GOODWILL MESSAGE BY MR. KEHINDE DUROSINMI-ETTI, CHAIRMAN BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LAGOS STATE SECURITY TRUST FUND AT THE GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY OF THE LSSTF NEW OFFICE BUILDING
It gives me great pleasure to deliver this goodwill message at the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Lagos State Security Trust Fund building, a milestone that represents progress, partnership, and shared commitment to the security of our great State.
Today’s event holds special significance for me, not only as the current Chairman of the Trust Fund, but also as a pioneer member of the Board who has witnessed, firsthand, the evolution of this institution from its earliest days. The Lagos State Security Trust Fund was established by law assented to by His Excellency, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, on the 3rd of September 2007. That landmark decision laid the foundation for a structured and sustainable public–private partnership in support of security in Lagos State.
In those formative years, meetings of the Board were held in the office of the then Honourable Commissioner for Establishments, who, fittingly, is today the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu. As our responsibilities expanded, the Trust Fund moved into a rented office space in July 2008, from where it has continued to discharge its mandate with dedication and impact till now.
I wish to specially acknowledge and commend our distinguished donor, Sir Kensington Adebutu, whose exceptional generosity and foresight have made this project possible. His decision to solely fund this building reflects not only uncommon philanthropy, but also a deep sense of responsibility to public safety and the continued stability of Lagos State. The Trust Fund remains profoundly grateful for this enduring support.
I also express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Governor, for his unwavering leadership and commitment to strengthening the security architecture of the State. The consistent support of the Lagos State Government has been instrumental to the growth and effectiveness of the Fund since its establishment.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this new building will provide the Trust Fund with a purpose-built and permanent home, enhancing our capacity for coordination, accountability, and strategic engagement with our security partners. It is a clear demonstration of our determination to build strong institutions that can meet both present and future security challenges.
As we break ground today, we are reminded that security is a shared responsibility, that requires collaboration between government, the private sector, and all stakeholders. This project stands as evidence of what can be achieved when vision, leadership, and partnership come together in service of the public good.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend our sincere appreciation to Sir Kensington Adebutu for his exceptional generosity, particularly his commitment to delivering the fully furnished building by October 2026.
We also express our profound gratitude to Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, for gracing this event with his presence despite the many competing engagements characteristic of this period. We specially thank our service commanders for their attendance and continued support, you service is very much appreciated.
We are equally thankful to all our distinguished guests, partners, stakeholders, and friends of the Fund who honoured us with their presence today. Your support and encouragement continue to inspire our work and reaffirm our shared responsibility in building a safer and more secure Lagos for all.
Thank you all for listening
Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti
Chairman, LSSTF.