In a bid to fulfill the Federal Government’s directive to secure all schools nationwide, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has inaugurated a Stakeholders’ Forum to streamline school security operations.
The launch event was held on Tuesday at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja, following similar forums conducted in Kaduna and Niger States earlier in May 2024.
The event brought together notable figures such as the Honourable Minister of the FCT, represented by Alhaji Adamu Buba Gwari, Director of Security Services; DIG Ede Ayuba Ekpeji, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Operations), representing IGP Kayode Egbetokun; Mrs. Halima Iliya, National Coordinator of the Safe School Initiative; FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Igweh, and the District Heads of Idu and Bwari, among other dignitaries.
With the theme “Strengthening Security Resilience: Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education,” the forum aimed to address the security concerns affecting schools across the country.
DIG Ekpeji reiterated the IGP’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between the NPF, other security agencies, and stakeholders to safeguard educational institutions. He also highlighted the launch of the School Protection Squad (SPS), an initiative designed to enhance security measures in schools, particularly in response to the alarming rise in student kidnappings.
Mrs. Halima Iliya, National Coordinator of the Financing Safe Schools program, emphasized the importance of this initiative in line with the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to securing schools and protecting the right to education.
The forum also sought to clarify the role of host communities in supporting school security, encouraging public engagement to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for students nationwide.
