Lagos State Launches Drone Surveillance Programme to Boost Crime Monitoring, Emergency Response
In a significant move toward leveraging technology to improve public safety, the Lagos State Government has officially launched a drone surveillance programme aimed at enhancing crime monitoring and emergency response across the state.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), is designed to provide real-time aerial intelligence that will strengthen the operational capacity of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC).
The drones will be deployed across various local government areas to monitor high-risk zones, facilitate rapid emergency response, and deter criminal activity through increased aerial surveillance.
Speaking during the launch, the General Manager of LNSA, Prince (Dr.) Ifalade Oyekan, FSIN, highlighted the importance of embracing innovation in addressing modern security challenges.
“The introduction of drone surveillance marks a pivotal step in our commitment to leveraging technology for the safety and well-being of Lagos residents.
“This system will provide real-time data, enhance our situational awareness, and support faster response times during emergencies,” said Dr. Oyekan.
The drone program is part of a broader strategy by the Sanwo-Olu administration to modernize Lagos State’s security infrastructure and integrate smart technology into public governance.
The drones, equipped with high-resolution cameras and GPS tracking, will be used to support various functions including surveillance of criminal hotspots, monitoring large gatherings, tracking traffic incidents, and responding to disasters.
The state government emphasized that the drones would be operated in compliance with all existing privacy and aviation regulations, with the sole aim of protecting lives and property. Dr. Oyekan assured Lagosians that data gathered will be strictly used for public safety purposes and in coordination with other security agencies for maximum impact.
Residents across the state have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it will enhance law enforcement efficiency and improve their sense of security.
Many believe the visibility of drone patrols will serve as a deterrent to potential criminal activity.
This drone surveillance programme reinforces Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s broader “Smart Lagos” agenda — a policy framework focused on using digital innovation to improve governance, infrastructure, and the quality of life in the state.
The Lagos State Government plans to expand the drone fleet in the coming months, with training programs for drone operators and integration of the system with emergency call centers and security dashboards.
As other Nigerian states look to strengthen their own public safety systems, Lagos’ drone surveillance model may soon serve as a template for technology-driven community policing across the country.
