From Ahmad Muhammadu Saka, in Bauchi
The 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 in line with the overall national plan on ‘Financing Safe Schools Initiative’ across the federation.
Egbetokun said this on Thursday in Bauchi at the launching of ‘Save Schools’ Stakeholders Forum’ at Hazibal Hotel Conference hall.
He said 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.
He described the initiative as a significant stride towards all-inclusive approach to safe schools and learning environments.
Egbetokun 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.
Represented by AIG Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, Egbetokun advised the 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.
IGP launched the Bauchi State Police Command’s Schools Protection Squad (SPS) at the occasion and assured Police ready to continue to protect lives and properties and ensure safe learning environment for students.
On his Part Governor Bala Mohammed said intelligence units of various security agencies should enlighten 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, advised students’ leaders to use the right channel to alert the Control Room of security outfits whenever they notice any suspicious person or event.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omoloto Aliyu 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.
Sani said 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.
He said, 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.
