This study investigates the impact of community policing on crime reduction in the Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State, Nigeria. Against the backdrop of rising crime rates and a historically strained police-public relationship, the research examines whether community policing has delivered tangible improvements in public safety and trust. Drawing on Functionalist and Collective Efficacy theories, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative insights from community stakeholders. Key findings indicate a significant decline in reported crime following the introduction of community policing initiatives, along with improved perceptions of police-community collaboration. However, challenges such as limited resources, inconsistent implementation, and lingering distrust persist. The study highlights the importance of community participation, youth engagement, and culturally sensitive policing strategies in developing practical and sustainable security solutions. Additionally, it highlights the role of informal social control mechanisms, such as traditional leaders and local vigilante groups, in complementing formal police efforts. Research contributions include empirical validation of community policing’s theoretical underpinnings in a Nigerian context and policy-relevant insights into grassroots security governance. The study concludes that while community policing holds considerable promise, its long-term success requires institutional reform, continuous civic dialogue, and adequate operational support. Future research is recommended to explore intercultural communication, digital policing platforms, and the differentiated impacts of community policing on vulnerable populations.