Mr Lawrence Wilbert, President General, Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA), on Friday called for adequate security and protection for Nigerian students especially in Unity schools across the country.
Wilbert made the call during a press conference in Abuja, ahead of USOSA’s 38th plenary and Annual General Assembly (AGM).
He expressed worry over the spate of insecurity and kidnapping targeted at students in Nigeria, saying it was no longer tolerable.
“The reason for our Annual General Assembly by tomorrow is security in the nation, particularly in education sector.
“There is evidence of insecurity happening across the country like the Birnin Yauri students abduction,” he said.
Wilbert, who reiterated the need to increase security for students, said it would enhance educational efficiency.
He expressed the commitment of the association to the unity of Nigeria, through advancement of equity and justice.
According to him, true Nigerians are those people who are not tribal or religious chauvinist but have the unity and security of the country at heart.
The USOSA President General commended Maj.- Gen. Chris Musa, leader of the military operations in the Northeast and a member of the association, for his gallantry and capacity in tackling insurgency.
He explained that the alumni association had continued to assist the Federal Government in promoting quality education.
“We have assisted in building libraries, sports facilities, better management of schools as well as paying salaries of some teachers,” he said.
Mr Mike Magaji, Vice President of the association called for more collaboration of Nigerians in tackling insecurity and repositioning the country’s education sector.
Magaji emphasised the imperative of collective effort in recreating Nigeria for a better nation.
Ms Sotonye Apiaffi, National Publicity Secretary of the association, said that attitudinal change and diplomacy were paramount in addressing religious and tribal challenges.
Apiaffi identified tribal and religious narratives as weapons used by some elements to create disunity and discord among Nigerians.