In a significant move to secure a critical new piece of infrastructure, the Lagos State Police Command has initiated round-the-clock security patrols along the newly opened Coastal Route. This deployment marks a pivotal shift from reactive policing to a proactive, visible security strategy designed to protect both the massive public investment in the road and the citizens who use it.
Beyond Traffic Control: A Strategic Security Posture
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, announced the deployment during a Show of Force exercise in Victoria Island. While the immediate catalyst was chaotic traffic violations—including rampant one-way driving that caused gridlock and accidents—the strategy reveals a deeper understanding of modern urban security.
The police are not merely managing traffic; they are establishing a security corridor. By stationing over 30 dedicated patrol teams (each comprising six armed officers) and approximately 20 tactical squads along the route, the Command is creating a persistent, deterrent presence. This is crucial for a road that traverses developing areas, beaches, and event centers—locations often targeted by opportunistic criminals.
The Nexus of Security and Economic Development
Commissioner Jimoh’s statement underscores a vital, often overlooked principle: security is a prerequisite for economic utility. A road built to ease the notorious congestion to Lekki and boost connectivity fails its purpose if commuters fear for their safety. The 24/7 patrols are, therefore, an essential operational component that unlocks the road’s economic and social value. Jimoh explicitly linked police responsibility to the “huge investments” in construction, framing infrastructure protection as a direct contributor to national development.
Operational Insights and Future Implications
The Commissioner provided tangible metrics of success: since the patrols began, there have been no recorded serious crimes or fatal accidents on the route, and compliance has improved. This data-driven claim suggests the deployment is being monitored for effectiveness, not just visibility.
Looking ahead, the police pledge to sustain this deployment through the ongoing construction phases and beyond. This is a critical commitment, as construction zones are often vulnerable. The assurance to the Federal Ministry of Works also signals a model that could be replicated on other critical federal highways across Nigeria, where infrastructure is frequently damaged or unsafe.
A Collaborative Model for Urban Safety
The Commissioner’s appreciation for the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlights the collaborative effort required. Effective policing of this scale depends on equipment, logistics, welfare, and political support. This model—where state and federal authorities align resources to secure a strategic asset—could serve as a blueprint for other mega-projects.
Conclusion: A Road Secured is a Community Empowered
The launch of 24/7 patrols on the Lagos Coastal Route is more than a news item about police deployment. It is a case study in integrated urban management, demonstrating how security strategy must evolve in tandem with infrastructure development. For residents and commuters, the message is clear: the road is not only open but is actively policed to be a safe, reliable artery. The success of this initiative will be measured not just in crime statistics, but in the confidence of Lagosians to fully utilize this vital new corridor, thereby justifying the immense investment in its creation.
Edited by Sandra Umeh
