Taking after a similar technological initiative by the Enugu State government, the Lagos State Government has now also introduced drone technology for 24-hour security monitoring as part of its efforts to strengthen internal surveillance and improve public safety across the state.
It will be recalled that in 2025, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, introduced a high‑tech security enhancement programme to strengthen crime prevention and rapid response across the state.
Through the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), the government procured and commissioned advanced surveillance assets including two long‑range drones, 10 Hilux patrol vehicles, 40 motorcycles, and 400 bulletproof vests and helmets to enhance security operations.
The drones, equipped with day and night vision, thermal imaging, and AI‑enhanced cameras, provide a 100‑kilometre operational range and support aerial surveillance of strategic and hard‑to‑reach areas.
The new Lagos program, which is being carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, is designed to provide real-time aerial views of strategic locations, highways, and areas considered vulnerable to crime.
Officials say the drones will support conventional patrols by offering faster detection of suspicious movements and aiding rapid response by security operatives.
Technology to Enhance Crime Prevention
Speaking on the development, state authorities explained that the deployment of drones marks a new phase in the use of technology to combat crime and enhance intelligence gathering.
According to them, the aerial devices will help monitor traffic corridors, flashpoints, and hard-to-reach areas, especially during emergencies or security threats.
The move comes amid rising concerns over urban crime and the need for smarter security solutions in Nigeria’s most populous state.
Security experts believe the use of drones can significantly improve situational awareness and reduce response time in critical incidents.
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the announcement. While many welcomed the development as a positive step toward safer streets, others called for clear guidelines on data use and privacy protection to prevent misuse of the technology.
Legal and Ethical Frameworks
The state government assured the public that the drone programme would be operated strictly within legal and ethical frameworks.
It said the system is intended solely for security monitoring and emergency management, not for invading citizens’ privacy.
Authorities also noted that the drones would complement existing security infrastructure, including CCTV cameras and patrol teams, rather than replace them.
Training has reportedly been conducted for personnel who will operate the devices and analyse the footage generated.
With the introduction of drone surveillance, Lagos joins a growing number of cities around the world using aerial technology to fight crime and improve urban safety.
Officials expressed optimism that the project would deter criminal activities and help security agencies respond more efficiently to threats.
The government reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that innovative solutions would continue to be adopted to address security challenges in the state.
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