As part of intensified efforts to safeguard educational institutions, the Nigeria Police Force has inaugurated a School Protection Squad (SPS) and launched a two-day stakeholders forum and training session on school security in Benue State.
Held at the New Banquet Hall of the Government House, Makurdi, the event was themed “Strengthening Security of Schools in Benue State and Training of the School Protection Squad (SPS).” It also marked the official rollout of the Safe School Initiative in the state.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, NPM, who was represented by AIG Zacharia Achinyan, fdc, of Zone 4, Makurdi, inaugurated the SPS during the forum. In his address, the IGP emphasized the importance of secure learning environments for national development.
“Our schools are not only sanctuaries of knowledge but also nurturing grounds for future leaders,” he said. “The security of our schools determines the security of our future.” He further directed Commissioners of Police across the zone to engage with local stakeholders for sustained collaboration on school safety.
The IGP also outlined plans to deploy modern technology and intelligence-led policing strategies to proactively protect schools. He appealed to parents and communities to support law enforcement efforts in ensuring safe learning environments.
In his welcome remarks, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Dr. Emenari Ifeanyi, described the initiative as both timely and crucial. Citing challenges such as cultism, robbery, kidnapping, and child trafficking, he declared, “Our children are our future and must be protected.”
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Deborah Aber, Esq., detailed state-level interventions, including special operations, distribution of mobility assets to security agencies, and the creation of a State School Response Centre.
CP Abayomi Shogunle, PhD, fsi, National Coordinator and Commissioner of Police in charge of the SPS at Force Headquarters, Abuja, explained that the initiative aims to reduce the number of out-of-school children and improve Nigeria’s human capital index. He also announced the establishment of a 24-hour emergency response center for school-related incidents.
Hajiya Halima Iliya, National Coordinator on Financing for the Safe School Programme, highlighted the initiative’s goal to bridge security gaps and promote awareness among school administrators and communities. She emphasized a “whole-of-society approach” in ensuring educational institutions remain safe and resilient.
Participants at the forum received training in security awareness, ICT, and community partnership strategies—key components of a comprehensive plan to enhance the protection of schools throughout Benue State.
