Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the FCT to engage various stakeholders to ensure the safety of schools.
Egbetokun said the directive was in line with the overall National plan on ‘Financing Safe Schools Initiative’ across the Federation.
The IGP emphasised that it is only by working together with stakeholders that security agencies can achieve a safer, more secure and conducive learning environment for the Nigerian children.
Speaking in Bauchi at the launching of ‘Save Schools’ Stakeholders Forum’ on Thursday, the IGP described the initiative as a significant stride towards all-inclusive approach to safe schools and learning environments.
Egbetokun, who also launched the Bauchi State Police Command’s Schools Protection Squad (SPS), said it has become imperative for the Nigerian educational authorities and community leaders to work with security agencies towards fortifying the schools against any potential threat.
The IGP who was represented by AIG Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, urged the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police to use his expertise, experience and ideas to develop innovations and actionable plans that will enhance the security and resilience of schools in the state.
Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed at the occasion, said intelligence units of various security agencies should target some students’ leaders and their unions to identify any threat and inform security authorities.
Governor Bala who was represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, AIG Ahmed Abdulrahman, tasked students’ leaders to use the right channel to alert the Control Room of security outfits whenever they notice any suspicious person or event.
Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omoloto Aliyu had earlier highlighted the alarming increase of kidnappings, attacks and violence targeting schools, students, and staff.
“These abhorrent incidents have not only disrupted the educational process but have also instilled fear and anxiety among parents, students, and the nation at large, which the police in collaboration with the federal government and various stakeholders responded with the development of the “Safe School Programme.
He added that the unit will work closely with educational institutions, communities, and other stakeholders to identify potential threats, respond promptly to emergencies, and provide support to affected schools and communities.
According to him, the squad represents a significant advancement in the Police’s commitment to school safety, maintaining that the squad in the state will be rigorously trained and dedicated to preventing attacks and effectively addressing emergencies as they arise.
The CP explained that the federal government has demonstrated dedication to this initiative by providing funding and resources to support the implementation of the programme.
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