The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has launched the Safe School Initiative in Bauchi State to safeguard schools and pupils from potential attacks. The initiative aims to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for children by enhancing security measures in schools.
Speaking at the launch of the Safe Schools Stakeholders Forum on the Security of Schools and the inauguration of the Bauchi State Police Command’s School Protection Squad, the IGP emphasized the importance of schools in nation-building and the need to protect them. He noted that schools are not only spaces for knowledge acquisition but also a nurturing ground for future leaders.
The initiative includes the installation of security enhancements such as CCTV cameras and alarm systems in schools across the state. Additionally, 90 specially trained officers have been deployed to ensure the security of schools. The police have also provided necessary resources, including vehicles and communication equipment, to support the squad’s effectiveness.
The State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, highlighted the importance of community involvement in the program, noting that local communities are being engaged to raise awareness about school safety and encourage active participation. He also mentioned that training programs are being conducted to build the capacity of school administrators, teachers, and security personnel to respond to emergencies effectively.
The National Coordinator on Financing Safe Schools, Hajiya Halima Iliya, called on states that have not yet joined the Safe Schools Program to do so, emphasizing that it will improve Nigeria’s rating in the Human Capital Index in the long run.
The Safe School Initiative is a collaborative effort between the police, schools, communities, and other stakeholders to ensure that schools are fortified against potential threats and provide a safe learning environment for children.
