Pix: Commandant Keshinro Adedotun

By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-In-Chief

In what has been described as a historic milestone for security operations in Lagos State, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has secured a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and building approval from the Lagos State Government for the construction of a new ultra-modern headquarters in the state.

This was disclosed during an exclusive interview this morning in Lagos with the Editor-in-Chief of People’s Security Monitor, Isiska Mustapha, by the Lagos State Commandant of the Corps, Keshinro Adedotun, who described the development as “a turning point in the history of the NSCDC in Lagos.”

According to Commandant Adedotun, the achievement was made possible through the goodwill of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the visionary leadership of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi.

“This approval is monumental. For years, our officers in Lagos have operated under serious space constraints without a befitting command headquarters. With this new approval, we are not only building a structure but creating a hub that will serve the security needs of Lagos State for decades to come,” Adedotun told People’s Security Monitor..

Pending the completion of the new headquarters, the Lagos State Government has allocated two blocks of buildings, formerly belonging to the Ministry of Works and Housing, located in Iponri, Lagos Mainland, to serve as the Command’s temporary office.

“The temporary office at Iponri is not just a stop-gap; it is a functional workplace with 34 offices, which are currently under going renovation. Already, some of our key departments, including intelligence, operations, and administration, have started relocating there to ensure smooth operations. This shows the government’s trust in our work and its commitment to strengthening security in Lagos,” the Commandant explained.

Adedotun stressed that the C of O and building approval were granted as a mark of appreciation for the Corps’ dedicated services to Lagos residents.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his wisdom, has recognised that the Lagos NSCDC has consistently contributed to safeguarding lives, property, and critical national assets. From disaster response to crime prevention and community engagement, our officers have stood firm in service. This approval is the government’s way of saying, ‘We see your efforts and we value them,’” he said.

He further revealed that the new headquarters would be built to modern standards, with facilities to improve the Corps’ efficiency and capacity.

“The new structure will consolidate all our departments under one roof, provide space for advanced training, foster inter-agency collaboration, and give us the visibility we need as a security institution in a mega city like Lagos,” he noted.

Commandant Adedotun paid glowing tribute to the Commandant General of the Corps, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, whom he described as “the driving force behind the achievement.”

“Professor Audi has been a father and a mentor. His leadership has repositioned the NSCDC nationwide and has inspired us at the state level. Without his push and influence, this milestone would not have been possible,” Adedotun said.

He also praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his “exemplary kindness and inspiring leadership.”

“Governor Sanwo-Olu has once again shown his commitment to security as the bedrock of development. By granting us this approval and allocating a temporary office, he has proven himself to be a governor with courage and compassion. The Lagos Command remains grateful,” he said.

The Commandant further acknowledged the continuous support of stakeholders across the state.

“We are thankful to our local government chairmen, traditional rulers, community leaders, sister security agencies, and corporate organizations. Their unflinching support has strengthened our operations, and we count on their continued partnership as we enter this new phase,” Adedotun added.

He concluded by assuring Lagosians that the NSCDC remains committed to its mandate of protecting lives, property, and critical national assets.

“With this new chapter, our officers are more motivated than ever. The upcoming headquarters will serve as a symbol of resilience, professionalism, and service. Lagos deserves the best, and we will not relent until we deliver it,” he affirmed.