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By Christopher Oji
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has promised that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), would move to its own office in October 2026.
The governor, who spoke during the ground breaking ceremony of Sir. Kesington Adebutu Security Trust Fund Building, Alausa, said the assurance was given to him by Pa Adebutu who is single handedly sponsoring the multi million Naira project.
The governor said he was happy that the dream of the Fund having its own office had been actualised, adding that, “For almost two decades, the Fund which started in his office before moving to a rented apartment, will now have a more befitting office. The sponsor has assured that the resources are available to complete the project.”
He, however, advised the contractor handling the project to do a good job and deliver the project on time as his handiwork would determine if he would be considered for another job by the Ministry of Works. I am praying that Pa Adebutu will live longer to continue with his philanthropic works.”
The Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, Ayo Ogunsan, who thanked the governor for giving him the opportunity to serve, said: “It is with great humility and a deep sense of gratitude that I welcome you all to this landmark groundbreaking ceremony for the new office complex of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.
“Although I was not a pioneer member of the Board, I am keenly aware of the long and impactful journey of the LSSTF and the sacrifices, vision and partnerships that have sustained it over the years. I am, therefore, honoured to serve as Executive Secretary at this defining moment in the life of the Fund.
“When I was appointed as Executive Secretary in November 2025, one of the aspirations I shared with the Chairman and members of the Board was my strong desire to ensure that under my watch, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund would finally move from rented accommodation into a permanent home, a headquarters befitting its mandate, responsibilities and growing relevance to the security architecture of Lagos State.
“Remarkably and without hesitation, our distinguished benefactor, Sir Kensington Adebutu, fondly known to us all as Baba Ijebu, immediately embraced this vision. Right there and then, he graciously agreed to solely undertake the construction of this office complex as a donation to the Fund. This singular act of generosity remains both humbling and inspiring and it speaks volumes about Baba’s unwavering commitment to the safety, stability and progress of Lagos State. In recognition of his exceptional philanthropy, steadfast commitment to public safety and enduring support for Lagos State, the Board of the Fund resolved that this facility shall be named, “Sir Kesington Adebutu Security Trust Fund Building.
“Today’s ceremony is, therefore, more than a routine project milestone; it is a powerful symbol of leadership, trust and the impact of purposeful philanthropy. This purpose-built facility will significantly enhance our operational efficiency, institutional capacity and ability to coordinate effectively with our security partners in delivering on our mandate.
“I wish to sincerely thank Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, for his continued support of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and for fostering a governance environment that encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors in addressing critical security needs.
“I also extend my appreciation to the Chairman and members of the Board of Trustees, for their guidance, confidence and strategic oversight, as well as to our partners and stakeholders who continue to stand with the Fund in our shared mission of making Lagos safer for all.
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“As we break ground today, we do so with renewed commitment, optimism and a strong sense of responsibility. This project reinforces the principle upon which the LSSTF was founded, that security is a collective duty, best achieved through partnership and shared resolve. And I invite other selfless and worthy partners to emulate this gesture by making their own significant donation to the Fund.
“Once again, I express my profound gratitude to Sir Adebutu for this extraordinary gesture and for the legacy this building will represent for generations to come.
“I thank you all for your presence and support and I look forward to the successful and timely completion of this important project.
“I wish you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.”
However, Pa Adebutu said he was happy that he was the one providing succour to the Fund and promised to deliver the project in October 2026 and to continue to put smiles on people’s faces.
Earlier, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti, Chairman, LSSTF, said: “Today’s event holds special significance for me, not only as the current chairman of the Trust Fund, but also as a pioneer member of the Board, who has witnessed, firsthand, the evolution of this institution from its earliest days. The Lagos State Security Trust Fund was established by law assented to by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, on September 3, 2007. That landmark decision laid the foundation for a structured and sustainable public–private partnership in support of security in Lagos State.
“In those formative years, meetings of the Board were held in the office of the then Commissioner for Establishments, who is today, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu. As our responsibilities expanded, the Trust Fund moved into a rented office space in July 2008, from where it has continued to discharge its mandate with dedication and impact till now.
“I wish to specially acknowledge and commend our distinguished donor, Sir Adebutu, whose exceptional generosity and foresight have made this project possible. His decision to solely fund this building reflects not only uncommon philanthropy, but also a deep sense of responsibility to public safety and the continued stability of Lagos State. The Trust Fund remains profoundly grateful for this enduring support.
“I also express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Governor, for his unwavering leadership and commitment to strengthening the security architecture of the state. The consistent support of the Lagos State Government has been instrumental to the growth and effectiveness of the Fund since its establishment.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this new building will provide the Trust Fund with a purpose-built and permanent home, enhancing our capacity for coordination, accountability and strategic engagement with our security partners. It is a clear demonstration of our determination to build strong institutions that can meet both present and future security challenges.
“As we break ground today, we are reminded that security is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between government, the private sector and all stakeholders. This project stands as evidence of what can be achieved when vision, leadership and partnership come together in service of the public good.”
