The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF has intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic security manufacturing sector following a strategic engagement with Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited, an indigenous defence and security technology firm.
The meeting, held during a working visit to EPAIL’s production facility along the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway, focused on potential collaboration and procurement of locally manufactured security equipment for use by security agencies across Lagos.
The LSSTF delegation was led by its Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Ayo Ogunsan, alongside the Director of Administration, Adegbola Lewis. They were received by the Chairman/CEO of EPAIL Nigeria, Kola Balogun, and the company’s Director of Engineering, Olabisi.
Discussions centred on the procurement of high-quality security hardware and protective gear to enhance the operational capacity of security personnel in the state.
The proposed partnership, according to LSSTF, reflects a deliberate shift towards promoting local content development and reducing reliance on imported security equipment. The initiative is also expected to conserve foreign exchange, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s technical capacity in defence manufacturing.
Speaking during the visit, Ogunsan emphasised the importance of leveraging indigenous expertise, describing it as both economically and strategically beneficial.
“Indigenous production enables faster delivery timelines, allows for customisation to local operational realities, and ensures long-term sustainability of security investments,” he said.
Established in 2014, EPAIL Nigeria is regarded as a pioneer in ballistic manufacturing in the country, producing items such as bulletproof vests, ballistic helmets, and other defence-grade equipment. The company also provides surveillance systems and infrastructure protection solutions across Nigeria.
