The General Manager of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), Prince Ifalade Oyekan, FISN, has embarked on a strategic fact-finding visit to the Metropolitan Police Service and other law enforcement agencies in the United Kingdom, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community policing in Lagos State.
The visit, which forms part of a broader research and institutional development initiative, was designed to provide firsthand insight into how community policing operates in advanced jurisdictions where the model has matured and delivered sustainable results. During the engagements, Prince Oyekan interacted with frontline officers, gaining valuable perspectives on operational practices, challenges, and opportunities within the UK policing system.
A major highlight of the discussions was the deeply ingrained culture of law-abiding behaviour among citizens, which was identified as a critical factor underpinning effective policing in the UK. Officers emphasized the indispensable role of public cooperation, noting that communities actively support law enforcement efforts in maintaining safety and order.
Both parties underscored the importance of shared responsibility in security governance, stressing that citizens must take ownership of their safety. Particular attention was drawn to parental responsibility, with UK practices reflecting a culture where families willingly provide relevant information about errant members to security agencies in the broader interest of public safety.
Reflecting on the visit, Prince Oyekan described his engagements with the Metropolitan Police Service, Bexleyheath Police, and Kent Police as “engaging and revealing.”
“My visits were highly insightful. They have opened up new directions and reinforced some of the principles we already practice in community policing. We remain committed to improving our services,” he stated.
He further noted that the Agency is focused on building strategic partnerships with international law enforcement bodies as part of preparations for the anticipated transition of the Corps into a state policing structure, as envisioned by the Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
The visit also aligns with ongoing national conversations around the establishment of state policing, as proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) While it also highlights the significant steps in Lagos State’s efforts to adopt global best practices in community-based security, with a view to enhancing public safety, trust, and institutional effectiveness.
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