By Karen James
Awka, Anambra State – In a critical step toward securing educational institutions across Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force hosted a significant stakeholders’ forum on school security. Held at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre in Awka, the event brought together dignitaries, security officials, and community members to address pressing concerns over the safety of schools in Anambra State.
The forum, led by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone I, Ukpo, focused on “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education.” This event underscores the commitment of both the government and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to prioritise the security of schools, aiming to create a safe, conducive environment for learning.
Bringing warm greetings from the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, AIG Ukpo emphasised the establishment of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) as part of ongoing initiatives to enhance school security. “Our presence here today is a testament to our collective will to support the IGP and the NPF in promoting the Federal Government’s agenda of prioritising school protection in Nigeria,” Ukpo noted.
In his address, Ukpo praised Anambra State’s Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for his dedication to school safety, further stressing the importance of cooperation between host communities and law enforcement. “Collaboration and integration between host communities and security agencies play a significant role in fostering a secure and harmonious coexistence. Together, we can address the challenges faced by our schools,” Ukpo added.
The National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, was also acknowledged for his leadership in advancing the vision of a secure educational landscape. The forum highlighted plans to expand the SPS initiative to all states and the Federal Capital Territory, with extensive training for state coordinators and divisional police officers to better equip them in protecting school environments.
As the forum concluded, AIG Ukpo reiterated the commitment of all stakeholders to ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s educational institutions, urging ongoing collaboration to protect students and educators. “Together, we can forge a brighter, safer future for the next generation,” he stated, as participants reaffirmed their commitment to this cause.
The forum stands as a pivotal reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard education, reflecting a nationwide priority to secure schools and communities alike. In conclusion the dignitaries present at the even were the AIG zone 13 AIG Godwin Ndidi Aghaulor, the commissioner of police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam, the Anambra deputy governor Onyeka Ibezim and many others.
