IGP stresses school security as national priority
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has emphasised that the security of schools is directly linked to the safety and future of the nation.
Speaking at a forum in Dutse on Thursday, Egbetokun, who was represented by AIG Ahmad Ammani of Zone 1, Kano, reiterated the importance of protecting educational institutions from security threats.
The event focused on strengthening security resilience in schools and training the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) to safeguard educational facilities. Themed “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education,” the forum underscored the need for collaborative efforts to secure learning environments.
Egbetokun stated that the Safe Schools Initiative is a direct reflection of the police force’s commitment to ensuring students and institutions remain secure.
“Schools are not just centres of learning but the foundation for our nation’s future. Their security must be a priority,” he said.
The IGP further directed Commissioners of Police across the country to engage with stakeholders in their respective zones to enhance security measures for schools.
Egbetokun stressed that securing schools requires a coordinated effort involving education authorities, community leaders, security agencies, and local stakeholders.
“The establishment of the Schools Protection Squads represents a significant step in adopting an inclusive approach to school safety,” he noted.
He also highlighted plans for training programmes for teachers, administrators, and security personnel, equipping them to identify and respond to security threats effectively.
“We will integrate modern technology and intelligence-led policing to ensure proactive security measures around schools,” Egbetokun assured.
Mr Ahmadu Abdullahi, the Commissioner of Police in Jigawa, reaffirmed the state command’s dedication to safeguarding educational institutions.
“We are enhancing patrols, strengthening intelligence operations, and working closely with security agencies, stakeholders, and community groups to ensure rapid responses to any threats,” Abdullahi said.
He pointed out that Jigawa State has not recorded any attacks on schools and expressed confidence that the forum would lead to effective security strategies.
“The security landscape is evolving, requiring continuous innovation and collaboration,” he added.
Abayomi Shegunle, the Commissioner of Police for the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) at the Force Headquarters, noted that Nigeria has faced numerous security challenges, including kidnappings and destruction of school infrastructure, leading to a rise in out-of-school children.
He referenced a 2021 report which documented over 600 teachers killed and more than 19,000 individuals displaced between 2012 and 2016 due to security threats.
Recognising the urgency of the issue, Shegunle stated that Nigeria signed the Safe Schools Declaration on 31st December 2019, joining 118 other nations in committing to school safety.
He also noted that in 2021, the Federal Ministry of Finance organised a forum with local and international stakeholders to develop sustainable funding for school security initiatives.
In his opening remarks, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa reaffirmed that education remains a top priority for his administration.
He expressed optimism that the workshop would result in positive transformations in the education sector and pledged the state government’s full support for the Schools Protection Squad initiative.
