Municipality Voices Frustration Over Delays in CCTV Approval for Lagos
The Lagos municipality has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Government — particularly the Ministry of Internal Administration — over the prolonged delay in approving a planned CCTV surveillance system for the area.
In its latest council meeting, the local authority passed a motion of discontent and indignation, noting that the proposal for the CCTV network was formally launched two years ago in close collaboration with the Public Security Police (PSP) and the National Republican Guard (GNR). Both law enforcement bodies promptly submitted the dossier to the Ministry for review and approval.
Despite repeated efforts and direct communication with the Government and the Minister of Internal Administration, the municipality has yet to receive the green light for the system’s installation. As a result, Lagos is once again entering the peak tourist season without CCTV coverage — a situation worsened by the limited manpower available to law enforcement agencies to fulfil their duties year-round.
While not intended to replace the work of police officers, the CCTV system is seen as a crucial tool to:
- Enhance the safety of people and property in monitored areas;
- Protect both residents and visitors;
- Prevent and deter criminal activity and other risky behaviours;
- Aid in the identification of individuals for potential criminal accountability;
- Strengthen civil protection operations.
The municipality stresses that all legal requirements have been addressed on its end, but the final authorisation lies beyond its jurisdiction.
Lagos City Council will forward this motion to the relevant decision-making bodies, hoping the move will help break the deadlock and expedite the process.
