Lagos Security Trust Fund Urges Youth to Reject Crime and Cultism
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr Ayo Ogunsan, has issued a strong appeal to young people and community advocates to maintain integrity and actively reject social vices. This call comes in response to growing concerns over youth involvement in criminal activities and cultism across various communities in Lagos State.
Emphasis on Moral Standing and Discipline
Speaking during a strategic implementation meeting with members of the LSSTF Campaign Against Crimes, Cultism and Other Vices (LSSTF-CACCOV), led by State Coordinator Dr Moses Oladimeji, Ogunsan stressed that the effectiveness of security interventions hinges on the moral standing and discipline of those responsible for their execution. He cautioned members against any conduct that could compromise the initiative's credibility.
"You yourselves must rise above board," Ogunsan stated. "No one must accuse you of defrauding them; the moment we hear it, you are off. I don't want anyone to bring disrepute to this organisation. We will publicly disclaim you if you do so. You have to work on yourself. This goes beyond you personally to those you relate with. You have a friend and the friend is a cultist; no, you are not supposed to be there."
Preventive, Community-Driven Approach
The LSSTF-CACCOV initiative employs a preventive, community-driven strategy to address insecurity by engaging youths constructively and steering them away from crime and cultism. In Lagos, recognized as Nigeria's commercial nerve centre and a key economic hub in West Africa, stakeholders have highlighted the critical connection between security and economic productivity. Young people, who constitute a significant portion of the population, are central to this effort.
Ogunsan urged residents to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their communities, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities and promoting accountability. He noted that sustainable development flourishes in a secure environment, making community involvement essential.
Commitment to Grassroots Engagement
Responding on behalf of the committee, Oladimeji reaffirmed the group's dedication to grassroots engagement and behavioral reorientation among youths. "We understand that the issues of crime and cultism are concerns that worry every community," he said. "So, the initiative is a preventive approach to positively engage youths to resist vices, cultism, and crime, so that we can all live in a peaceful environment. Because if businesses will thrive and careers will grow, security will be of major importance."
Investment in Youth Development
Security experts have pointed out that investment in youth development—through education, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and gainful engagement—remains a powerful tool for crime prevention. By positioning young people as stakeholders and ambassadors of peace, LSSTF-CACCOV aims to reinforce values of responsibility, productivity, and lawful conduct.
The meeting was attended by key officials including LSSTF Director of Administration, Mr Adegbola Lewis, and Executive Assistant, Mrs Adaobi Nwankwo, underscoring the collaborative effort to enhance security in Lagos State.
