As Nigeria edges closer to another election cycle and the Easter season, the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos has ramped up its security posture, with Commissioner of Police Fatai Tijani assuring residents of robust measures to safeguard lives and property.

Speaking at a security stakeholders’ meeting held at POWA Hall in Ikeja as part of activities marking National Police Week 2026, Tijani emphasized proactive deployment of personnel across critical locations, including churches and public spaces, to ensure a peaceful Easter celebration.

He also issued a firm warning against electoral violence, urging political actors and residents to maintain peaceful conduct as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections. According to him, early vigilance and responsible behavior remain key to preventing disruptions.

Central to his message was the need for stronger collaboration between the police and the public. Tijani stressed that effective policing cannot be achieved in isolation, describing community participation as a critical success factor in sustaining security across Lagos.

“Policing is not a job for the police alone. Every individual is a stakeholder,” he said, reinforcing the importance of intelligence sharing and timely reporting of suspicious activities.

The commissioner highlighted community policing as a proven strategy that has contributed to Lagos’ relative stability, noting that increased engagement between residents and law enforcement has yielded positive results.

However, he raised concerns over rising social vices, particularly cultism among youths, calling on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to play a more active role in prevention through guidance, engagement, and education.

The event also featured calls for youth-focused interventions. National Youth Council of Nigeria Lagos Chapter representative, Adigun Ibrahim, advocated for empowerment initiatives and proposed the establishment of a police youth advisory council to address issues such as drug abuse, gang activity, and human trafficking.

In a symbolic highlight of the gathering, over ₦53 million was presented to families of fallen officers under the Inspector-General of Police Family Welfare Scheme—reinforcing the Force’s commitment to supporting those who paid the ultimate price in service.

Tijani reiterated that Lagos remains one of the safest states in the country but cautioned that sustaining this status requires continuous vigilance and public cooperation.

With increased security deployments and renewed emphasis on community partnership, the police are positioning themselves to manage both festive and political pressures—though the real test will lie in execution as crowds gather and political activities intensify.