Vigilante Group Seeks FG Recognition, Better Welfare at Lagos Intelligence Training
By Primetime Reports
IKEJA, Lagos State
The Lagos State Command of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has appealed to the Federal Government to grant the organization formal recognition, incorporate qualified operatives into the nation’s security structure, and place eligible personnel on the government payroll as part of efforts to strengthen community policing and national security.
The appeal was made during an Advanced Basic and Intelligence Training Programme for VGN officers held at the Police College, Ikeja, where senior officials outlined the organisation’s operations, achievements and contributions to community security during interactions with journalists.
Speaking at the training, the Assistant Group Commandant (Administration), Lagos State Command, Alhaji Owolabi Amusat, described the exercise as the fifth advanced intelligence training organized by the command to strengthen the professionalism, discipline, and operational effectiveness of its personnel.
According to him, regular retraining is essential in preparing officers to respond effectively to emerging security threats and changing criminal tactics.
“Learning never ends in security operations. We organize these retraining programmes to improve the competence of our officers and ensure they remain disciplined, professional and ready for every assignment,” he said.
In an interview with Journalists Amusat explained that the Vigilante Group of Nigeria operates across the Federal Capital Territory, all 36 states, and the 774 local government areas of the country, making it one of Nigeria’s largest grassroots security organizations.
He noted that the VGN works closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Armed Forces, and other security agencies in intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and community policing.
Responding to questions on why the organization is seeking formal government recognition despite the presence of existing security agencies, Amusat stressed that the VGN is not seeking to replace any security institution but to complement their efforts through its strong grassroots presence.
“We understand the terrain because we are members of the communities we serve. Our officers gather useful intelligence at the grassroots and assist other security agencies in maintaining peace and order. We believe formal recognition will strengthen collaboration and improve national security,” he said.
He also disclosed that the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, had provided operational vehicles to support the command’s activities, expressing optimism that the organization would be considered in any future state policing arrangement.
On the issue of operational capacity, particularly the use of firearms, Amusat explained that VGN operatives are authorized to use licensed light firearms in accordance with the law and in collaboration with recognized security agencies.
Also speaking with the media, the Lagos State Surveillance Officer of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Dr. Archbishop Elijah Adekunle Oderinlo (JP), said the training formed part of the organization’s continuous efforts to improve the professionalism of its officers.
He revealed that VGN personnel had benefited from specialized training conducted by the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security institutions.
“Our officers understand the terrain because they are part of the communities they protect. That gives us an advantage in intelligence gathering and early detection of criminal activities. We are always ready to work with other security agencies,” he said.
Oderinlo appealed to the Federal Government to formally recognize the organization, lamenting that many VGN operatives had lost their lives while serving their communities without salaries, insurance, or adequate welfare.
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“Many of our members have paid the ultimate price while serving their communities. We remain committed to protecting lives and property, but recognition and improved welfare will further motivate our personnel to give even more to national security,” he added.
The Area Commander for Alimosho, Julius Nnamere, also appealed for official government recognition, noting that the organization had consistently supported security operations since 1999 despite operating largely on voluntary service.
He expressed optimism that the current administration would give favorable consideration to the organization’s request in view of Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
Similarly, the Commander in charge of Motor Parks, Garages and Markets, Iwis Kudupemi Onoyemi, described the VGN as a practical model of community policing.
According to him, security personnel who are familiar with their environment are better positioned to identify suspicious movements and criminal activities than officers newly deployed from outside the community.
“Criminals live within our communities. Those of us who know the environment can quickly identify unusual activities and provide timely intelligence that helps prevent crime,” he said.
Highlighting some of the organization’s operational achievements, the Deputy State Commander in charge of Operations, Ayede Santos, recalled the VGN’s role during kidnapping incidents around the Iba and Ojo waterways in Lagos State.
He told Journalists that VGN operatives responded swiftly after receiving distress information, pursued the kidnappers into the waterways, and collaborated with other security agencies during rescue operations that resulted in the successful recovery of the victims.
“It is not about making claims before the media. The people know what we have done. Whenever our communities are threatened, our officers respond without hesitation. We are ready to do even more if given the necessary support,” Santos said.
Throughout the training, participants emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s security challenges requires stronger collaboration between conventional security agencies and community-based organizations with extensive knowledge of their local environments.
They unanimously appealed to the Federal Government to formally integrate qualified VGN operatives into the nation’s security architecture, arguing that such recognition would improve accountability, strengthen intelligence gathering, and enhance community policing across the country.
The officers also called for better welfare packages, insurance coverage, operational equipment, and improved logistics for members who continue to serve despite the risks associated with community security operations.
Bringing the programme to a close, the Lagos State VGN Training Officer, Igwe Moses, warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities.
Speaking with Journalists, Moses reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting security agencies in combating crime and protecting lives and property.
“No matter where criminals hide, we will continue to support security agencies in tracking them down. Our duty is to protect our communities, and we remain committed to that responsibility,” he said.
The Advanced Basic and Intelligence Training ended with practical intelligence sessions, tactical drills, and renewed calls for stronger government support, enhanced collaboration with conventional security agencies, and formal recognition of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria as a strategic partner in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
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