LASU Don Invests N18 Million in Security Education

LASU Don Invests N18 Million in Security Education, Trains Students Across Eight Universities

A LASU don invests N18 million initiative has attracted attention within Nigeria’s academic and security sectors after Professor Adedeji Oyenuga funded a major educational project focused on criminology, security studies, and digital forensics.

The Lagos State University professor spent approximately $12,000, equivalent to about N18 million, to produce security-related books and organise an electronic training programme for students from multiple universities. The project aimed to strengthen security education and encourage wider participation in criminology studies across Nigeria.

Security Books Distributed Beyond LASU

Professor Adedeji Oyenuga, a Professor of Criminology and Security Studies at Lagos State University, explained that the project extended beyond his institution.

According to him, the initiative involved the production of 100 copies of security books. He distributed the books free of charge to stakeholders within the security sector.

Oyenuga stated that he deliberately included students and institutions outside LASU to broaden the impact of the programme.

He said he collaborated with universities where he had built academic relationships over the years.

Participating institutions included Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State, Osun State University, Thomas Adewunmi University in Kwara State, the University of Ilorin, and several others.

In addition, some participants joined the programme through online registration.

The professor said the initiative was designed to contribute to the growth of criminology and security studies in Nigeria.

E-Training Programme Reaches Students Nationwide

Beyond publishing books, the project featured an extensive virtual training programme.

Students from different universities participated in the online sessions, which focused on security awareness, criminology, investigation methods, and emerging challenges within the security sector.

Oyenuga explained that education remains a critical tool in addressing security concerns across the country.

He noted that preparing future security professionals requires continuous training and exposure to current trends in crime prevention and investigation.

The programme also created opportunities for students to interact with professionals working in different areas of security and law enforcement.

Oyenuga Calls for Greater Investment in Security

During the programme, Oyenuga renewed his call for increased funding for security initiatives nationwide.

According to him, security should rank among the country’s highest priorities because every aspect of national development depends on a safe environment.

He argued that stronger investment would help improve intelligence gathering, law enforcement capabilities, and public safety.

The criminology expert also urged citizens to play a more active role in supporting security efforts.

He stressed that intelligence sharing remains essential in preventing crime and improving public safety.

According to him, residents often possess valuable information that could help security agencies stop criminal activities before they escalate.

He added that security should not be viewed solely as a government responsibility.

Instead, he said communities, individuals, and institutions all have important roles to play.

Public Cooperation Key to Effective Security

Oyenuga further addressed public perceptions of law enforcement agencies.

He cautioned against making broad assumptions about the police, noting that every profession contains both dedicated and ineffective individuals.

According to him, cooperation between citizens and law enforcement remains necessary for successful crime prevention.

He encouraged Nigerians to work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and sharing relevant information.

The professor maintained that stronger collaboration would improve trust and help create safer communities.

Digital Forensics Expert Highlights Emerging Challenges

The training programme also featured contributions from Robert Fried, Vice President of the Society of Professional Investigators in New York City.

Speaking virtually, Fried discussed the growing importance of digital forensics in modern investigations.

He explained that digital forensic specialists collect and preserve electronic evidence from devices such as computers, mobile phones, laptops, and storage systems.

According to him, investigators must ensure that collected data remains intact and suitable for legal proceedings.

Fried identified three major challenges facing the profession.

The first involves the increasing complexity of digital environments. Modern investigations often require access to cloud storage, mobile devices, surveillance systems, and network-connected equipment.

The second challenge concerns collaboration between public and private investigators. Different procedures and operational methods can sometimes create obstacles during investigations.

The third challenge is the massive volume of digital data generated every day.

According to Fried, investigators must carefully filter information and connect critical pieces of evidence while maintaining accuracy and legal standards.

AI-Driven Crime Raises New Concerns

Fried also warned about the growing use of artificial intelligence in criminal activities.

He pointed to voice cloning, image manipulation, and social engineering attacks as emerging threats that investigators increasingly encounter.

According to him, proving the origin of AI-generated content requires detailed examination of metadata and digital records.

He explained that investigators must identify when files were created, what software generated them, and who had access to the accounts involved.

While artificial intelligence can support investigations, Fried stressed that human expertise remains essential.

He said investigators must analyse evidence, develop strategies, and connect facts before drawing conclusions.

The project funded by Professor Adedeji Oyenuga demonstrates how academic institutions can contribute to national security development through education and professional training.

By investing approximately N18 million in books and digital learning opportunities, the LASU professor has expanded access to criminology and security knowledge for students across several universities.

The initiative also highlighted the growing importance of digital forensics, intelligence sharing, and collaboration in addressing modern security challenges. As security threats continue to evolve, experts believe education and public participation will remain vital tools in strengthening Nigeria’s security landscape.