The visit took him to the palace of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, as well as the Zone 2 Police Command Headquarters, where discussions centred on strengthening cooperation between security agencies, traditional institutions and the public in the interest of peace, security and development across the South-West.
Speaking during the engagement, DIG Fayoade acknowledged the critical role traditional rulers play in maintaining peace and supporting law enforcement efforts within their communities. He noted that closer collaboration between traditional institutions and the police would significantly improve intelligence gathering, enhance community policing initiatives and deepen public confidence in security agencies.
The DIG also stressed the importance of strategic communication in governance and policing, describing it as a vital tool for public enlightenment and citizen participation.
“I have been working on improving the way information is communicated and shared with the public. Effective communication is very important because it helps people understand issues clearly and promotes greater awareness and participation,” DIG Fayoade stated.
According to him, all segments of society, including traders, artisans, professionals, students and community leaders, contribute meaningfully to national growth and development. He commended Nigerians for their resilience and continued commitment to building the nation despite existing challenges.
Reaffirming the values guiding the Nigeria Police Force, the senior officer emphasized the need for transparency, fairness and accountability in public service, insisting that misconduct should never be tolerated.
“I want to assure you that transparency, accountability, and fairness will continue to guide our actions. Whenever wrongdoing is discovered, appropriate measures will be taken. No individual should hide behind position or privilege to evade responsibility,” he said.
DIG Fayoade further called for responsible and visionary leadership capable of addressing societal challenges while preserving national unity. He described the engagements as an opportunity to evaluate progress made so far, review current realities and strengthen commitments towards safer and more prosperous communities.
He also paid tribute to those who have sacrificed in service to the country, noting that their dedication should inspire greater efforts towards sustaining peace, security and development nationwide.
In his response, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, praised the Nigeria Police Force for its role in maintaining law and order and acknowledged the progress achieved in different sectors of national life.
The monarch urged stakeholders to consolidate on existing gains and ensure that development reaches all parts of the country.
“Much progress has been made over time, and we must continue to build on those achievements. While challenges remain, we should focus on moving forward and ensuring that development reaches every part of the country,” Oba Akiolu stated.
Oba Akiolu also highlighted the importance of responsible leadership and active citizenship, noting that every Nigerian has a duty to support initiatives that promote public welfare and strengthen national security.
He stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of government and security agencies.
“Those entrusted with protecting lives and property must carry out their duties diligently. Ensuring the safety of our people is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation,” he said.
The traditional ruler further appealed to Nigerians to shun actions and sentiments capable of creating political, religious or social divisions. Instead, he advocated unity, peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement as essential ingredients for national progress.
According to the monarch, sustained dialogue through meetings, workshops and collaborative initiatives has continued to provide effective platforms for addressing societal concerns and promoting development. He added that challenges relating to political and religious tensions, as well as other forms of violence, require collective action and sustained cooperation among government institutions, security agencies and citizens.