Prioritise Education To Fight Insecurity, Security Expert Urges Govt

A philanthropist and security expert, Major Yinka Ogunsanya (rtd), stressed the need for the three tiers of government in Nigeria to prioritise education for all citizens at the weekend, saying it remains the surest bet for the country to overcome challenges of insecurity nationwide.

With particular emphasis on primary school education, Ogunsanya advocated that the government at all levels must inject more funds into foundational education to ensure safe and quality basic education for all.

The Ijebu-born philanthropist recommended handing over a block of six classrooms he renovated at the Imososi Methodist Primary School in Ago-Iwoye town of Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The retired military officer from the United States Army said proper funding and management of primary school education have proven to be a potent tool for shaping individuals’ perspectives, attitudes, and behaviours, creating the peaceful environment society needs.

Speaking further, Ogunsanya said he was challenged to undertake the renovation of the school alongside a non-governmental organisation, ‘Education Care and Support Programme, ’ having been convinced that the government alone cannot meet all the structural needs of that school, which has been established since 1893, and because he believed in giving back to society.

He disclosed that he chose Imososi Methodist Primary School, Ago-Iwoye, for renovation because his late father, Pa Solomon Adenala, was a pupil and teacher in the school, noting that when he was young, he used to play football on the school field whenever they came back to Ago-Iwoye from Abeokuta.

He encouraged government officials to visit the schools to identify ways to improve learning. Where renovations are needed, they should be prioritised based on their merit.