The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has assured Nigerians its readiness to enhance security at the Sagamu interchange axis on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

NSCDC commandant in Ogun, Remilekun Ekundayo, gave the assurance at the stakeholders meeting organised by the command on Tuesday.

Ms Ekundayo said the security agencies needed to intensify monitoring of the route for enhanced security. She said the meeting was to brainstorm a lasting solution to the insecurity in the axis.

She stressed that the security agencies needed to intensify monitoring of the route because of the repeated cases of kidnapping due to its connectivity to industrial states such as Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo, among others.

“This route is very key to the security agencies in terms of safety. Formidable synergy among the security agencies is essential. It is germane to work hand in hand to ensure all Nigerians, foreigners and companies on the route remained secured against hoodlums, kidnappers, bandits and armed robbers, among others,” Mr Ekundayo said.

She urged motorists and companies on the route to be sensitive and security-conscious.

“NSCDC is determined to impose sanity at the route, leveraging stakeholders’ engagement and synergy with other security agencies. Sagamu interchange is strategic gates connecting Ogun, Oyo, Lagos and Ondo states, thereby playing a pivotal role in economic and social mobility.

“However, it has become a flashpoint for various security breaches, including vandalism, armed robbery, kidnapping and other notorious acts of violence. As the agency in charge of protecting critical national assets, an Operational Tactical Base has been established at the Sagamu interchange,” she said.

According to her, the tactical operational base is working closely with other security agencies for robust surveillance and effective intervention.

Mr Ekundayo, however, sought total commitment towards actionable strategies, including enhancing intelligence sharing, scaling up community policing and improving logistical capacity.

(NAN)