GENERAL LEO IRABOR EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS CENTER; IBEJU-LEKKI EARLY WARNING VOLUNTEERS NETWORK INAUGURATED

In a significant step toward strengthening community-based security and early threat detection in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, members of the General Leo Irabor Early Warning Systems Center (affiliated with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs) in conjunction with Ibeju-Local Government, have officially inaugurated the Ibeju-Lekki Early Warning Volunteers Network today Tuesday 3rd March, 2026. The inauguration ceremony brought together key stakeholders such as National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), LASCOTA, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Unified Muslim Body, Arewa, CDC , volunteers, and representatives from government and academic institutions, underscoring a collaborative commitment to proactive peacebuilding and risk mitigation at the grassroots level. Representing the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, was the Director, Admin and Human Resource, Mr. Sotubo Adeyemi, who warmly welcomed the newly formed network and all dedicated volunteers. In his address, Mr. Adeyemi encouraged the volunteers to discharge their responsibilities with utmost diligence and integrity. He expressed profound appreciation for their selfless volunteering spirit, noting that such community-driven initiatives are vital for fostering safety and harmony in the area. Representing the Director of Studies, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, was Associate Prof. Chinasa Ohiri, who conveyed institutional support and emphasized the alignment of this local network with broader national efforts to enhance early warning mechanisms. The Ibeju-Lekki Early Warning Volunteers Network has been mandated with critical responsibilities, including: Identifying any strange or unusual occurrences within the community. Detecting early signals of potential threats or disruptions. Promptly reporting observations to relevant authorities. Enhancing coordination among stakeholders. Promoting and sustaining peace at the local level. This volunteer-driven network represents a practical extension of the General Leo Irabor Early Warning Systems Center's mission to build Nigeria's capacity for anticipating, preventing, and mitigating risks, conflicts, and socio-political instabilities through timely information and community engagement. The inauguration highlights the growing importance of localized early warning systems in supporting national security architecture and empowering citizens to contribute actively to safer communities. Other dignitaries in attendance were the Head of Department, Agriculture and Social Services, Mr. Balogun Jelili Sesan, HOD Education, Mrs. Belo Ganiat, HOD Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Buko Sewanu, Auditor, Mr. Adeseun James, Olujimi amongst others.