The Lagos State Police Command has launched a statewide patrol operation to deter crime and reassure residents ahead of the Eid-il-Fitr celebrations.

The operation, conducted alongside other security agencies, aims to ensure safety before, during, and after the festive period across Lagos.

Why it matters

Eid-il-Fitr is one of the busiest festive periods in Nigeria, often marked by increased travel, social gatherings, and commercial activity.

Security experts say such periods can also create opportunities for criminal activity, making proactive policing essential.

What the police say

According to a statement by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the patrol is part of efforts to strengthen public confidence and maintain law and order.

“The operation is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of residents before, during, and after the festive period.”

Authorities say strategic deployments of personnel, operational assets, and intelligence-driven technology have been positioned across the state.

Residents react

Some residents in Agege and surrounding communities have welcomed the move, citing increased visibility of security personnel.

Industry and security perspective

Security analysts note that coordinated patrols involving multiple agencies can improve response times and intelligence sharing.

They also stress the importance of community cooperation, urging residents to report suspicious activities promptly.

What’s next

Police say the patrols will continue throughout the Eid period, with officers stationed at key locations including markets, highways, and recreational centres.

Authorities are also expected to monitor compliance with public safety measures and respond swiftly to emergencies.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has presented cheques worth over ₦2.4bn to families of deceased officers, in what authorities describe as a major step towards improving police welfare.

The payments were made to 1,075 beneficiaries under the Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Schemes during a ceremony at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

Officials say the funds cover multiple policy years between 2018 and 2026, including previously unpaid insurance claims.

Why it matters

For years, families of fallen officers have complained about delays in accessing insurance benefits after losing loved ones in the line of duty.

The latest disbursement is expected to restore some confidence in the system and provide financial relief to affected households.

Police authorities say clearing outstanding claims is part of broader efforts to rebuild trust within the force and improve morale among serving officers.

‘A commitment to families left behind’

Speaking at the event, the Force Insurance Officer, ACP Lydia Ameh, said the payments reflect renewed efforts to prioritise welfare.

“The disbursement reflects the determination of the Inspector-General of Police to prioritise the welfare of officers and their families,” she said.

She explained that the funds include recoveries from long-standing insurance obligations.

“Decisive steps have been taken to ensure compliance by insurance providers and prevent delays in claims settlement,” she added.

Ameh also pledged that the Force Insurance Unit would continue to improve transparency and accountability in handling welfare claims.

IGP: ‘We will not forget their sacrifices’

Responding, Mr Disu described the ceremony as a solemn moment to honour officers who died in service.

“This is a recognition of the sacrifices made by officers who lost their lives in the line of duty,” he said.

He added that the payments go beyond financial support.

“It represents the Force’s enduring obligation to honour the courage, service, and commitment of its fallen heroes while standing firmly by their families.”

Push for reforms and technology

The police chief said reforms were underway to prevent future delays.

“Efforts will be intensified to strengthen welfare frameworks, improve administrative efficiency, and eliminate delays in the processing and disbursement of benefits,” he said.

He also noted that the force plans to adopt modern technology to streamline claims processing and improve transparency.

Industry and public perspective

Welfare experts say timely insurance payouts are critical to maintaining morale in security agencies.

Delays in compensation, they argue, can discourage officers and erode trust in institutional support systems.

Public affairs analysts also note that improving welfare systems could enhance operational effectiveness, as officers are more likely to perform optimally when assured their families will be supported.

What’s next

The Nigeria Police Force says it will continue to monitor compliance by insurance providers and ensure that future claims are processed without delay.

Authorities also hinted at further reforms aimed at strengthening welfare policies across the force.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 771 officers across Anambra State to ensure safety during the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

The State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, said the move aims to provide “water-tight security” before, during, and after the festivities.

He made the announcement on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, after reviewing operational plans at the command headquarters in Awka.

Where officers will be stationed

According to the NSCDC, personnel will be positioned in high-risk and high-traffic areas.

These include Eid prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, recreational centres, and critical national infrastructure.

Specialised units such as the Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Rapid Tactical Squad, Anti-Vandalism Squad, and the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Unit will also be deployed.

“Strict action” warning

Commandant Olatunde issued a strong warning to potential offenders.

“Miscreants, hoodlums, disgruntled elements and vandals should keep off critical assets and infrastructure,” he said, adding that the Corps would take “strict action against anyone caught or found culpable.”

He also directed officers to remain professional and respect citizens’ rights while carrying out their duties.

Why it matters

Eid-el-Fitr is one of the most widely celebrated Islamic holidays in Nigeria, often marked by large gatherings.

Security deployments like this are aimed at preventing crime, protecting public spaces, and ensuring smooth celebrations.

In recent years, authorities have increased vigilance during festive periods due to concerns about vandalism, public disorder, and threats to critical infrastructure.

Public advisory

Residents have been urged to cooperate with security agencies and stay alert.

The NSCDC advised parents to keep a close watch on their children and encouraged the public to report suspicious activities promptly.

Message to Muslim faithful

The Commandant congratulated Muslim residents on the successful completion of Ramadan.

He urged them to uphold the values of discipline, peace, and unity associated with the fasting period.

What’s next

Security agencies are expected to maintain heightened surveillance beyond the festive period.

Officials say continuous monitoring will help prevent post-celebration incidents and safeguard infrastructure across the state.