How Eko Strike Force, community policing earned AIG Jimoh continental recognition

Continental Honor for Crime Prevention

Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2, Olohundare Jimoh, has been named the Most Outstanding Anti-Crime Police Chief in West and Central Africa for 2025. This recognition stems from the innovative crime prevention strategies he introduced during his tenure as the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State.

The award, conferred by the Security Watch Africa Initiative Network, was announced at the 19th edition of the African Security Watch Awards held in Banjul, The Gambia. Due to official commitments, AIG Jimoh was unable to attend the ceremony in person. The honor was formally presented to him at his Lagos office by the organization's International Coordinator, Patrick Apambu, and National Coordinator, Elizabeth Ndanku.

The Impact of the Eko Strike Force

Receiving the award, AIG Jimoh dedicated the recognition to the officers and personnel who served under his command. He emphasized that the achievement was a product of collective commitment to securing Lagos State rather than an individual effort.

A central pillar of his strategy was the establishment of the Eko Strike Force. This special patrol team saw significant growth under his leadership, expanding from an initial fleet of two patrol vehicles to more than 18. The unit was designed to complement the operations of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in high-pressure urban environments.

The award is not about me alone. It is a reflection of the dedication, hard work and professionalism of the officers and men who worked with me. Their commitment made the achievements possible.

— Olohundare Jimoh, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command

Strengthening Community Relations and Electoral Safety

Jimoh attributed the success of his tenure to strong collaboration with the public. He described Lagosians as civic-minded residents who partnered with the police by providing timely information and supporting various security initiatives. This synergy was highlighted as a key factor in enhancing public confidence in the police force.

Beyond routine crime fighting, the AIG noted the peaceful conduct of local government elections across the state's 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas during his time as Commissioner. He pointed out that the exercise was marked by an absence of violence, with no reports of ballot box snatching or attacks on voters.

The constitutional responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force goes beyond enforcing the law. It includes protecting lives and property, and we remain committed to strengthening crime prevention despite the challenges associated with the job.

— Olohundare Jimoh, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command

A Distinguished Career in Service

Speaking during the presentation, Patrick Apambu described AIG Jimoh as a disciplined and diligent officer whose distinguished service across multiple strategic postings earned him continental recognition. Before his roles in Lagos and Zone 2, Jimoh served as the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) and Commissioner of Police for the Ports Authority Command, Eastern Ports.

The award selection process was based on measurable improvements in crime prevention and the tangible strengthening of police-community relations. Apambu noted that Jimoh's leadership significantly boosted public trust through proactive engagement.

This honour is in recognition of the remarkable crime-fighting strategies introduced by AIG Olohundare Jimoh, which significantly improved crime prevention and enhanced public confidence in policing through stronger community engagement.

— Patrick Apambu, International Coordinator, Security Watch Africa Initiative Network