The Executive Secretary/CEO,
Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF)
In what marked his first public outing as the new Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan delivered a heartfelt and inspiring speech at the sendforth ceremony in honour of his predecessor, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun, describing his departure as ‘bittersweet’ and pledging to build on the solid legacy he leaves behind.
‘It’s a bittersweet feeling for me,’ Ogunsan began. ‘You’ve been an integral part of the security apparatus in Lagos for ten incredible years. You’ve raised the bar, set a legacy, and demonstrated what dedication and professionalism truly mean.’
While paying glowing tributes to Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun, Ogunsan described him as ‘a blunt, brave, and courageous leader’ who led with both firmness and grace. ‘He doesn’t care whose ox is gored, he’ll tell you the truth as it is,’ Ogunsan said, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. ‘We’ve fought, reconciled, and shared deep moments. He is not just a colleague or a friend, he’s an Egbon to me.’
Revealing the future of the security funding agency, Ogunsan reassured stakeholders that the core of LSSTF would remain strong under his leadership. ‘The real nucleus, the heart of LSSTF, will remain intact. We will continue with the existing template, but you will see new innovations and ideas. That should be the prayer of every leader, that their successor will do even better,’ he affirmed.
He also expressed deep gratitude to the Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for finding him worthy to continue the Fund’s mandate, pledging to ‘make the Governor and the people of Lagos proud.’
Ogunsan who formerly served as a board member equally lauded the Chairman of the LSSTF Board of Trustees, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti, calling him ‘the best board chairman anyone could work with.’
To the security agencies, partners, and staff of LSSTF, the new Executive Secretary extended a hand of collaboration. ‘Whatever you want me to do, I will do. We will work hand in hand to strengthen internal security across Lagos,’ he stated.
Closing on an emotional note, Dr. Ogunsan thanked his wife, Dr. Mrs. Ajoke Olufunmilola Ogunsan for her unwavering support.He also celebrated Dr. Balogun’s family who were present at the event telling them to be proud of ‘the complete family man to the core’ they have got.
‘Dr. Balogun, we will miss you deeply at the Fund. You’ve shown us what excellence looks like. I will carry your legacy forward and build on it,’ Ogunsan concluded.