In a decisive step toward enhancing the security of schools in the Federal Capital Territory, the Nigeria Police Force, led by Mr. Ede Ayuba Epkeji a Deputy Inspector-General of Police convened a strategic forum on Tuesday September 3rd, 2024.
The event, held at the Nigeria Police Force Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja, aimed to solidify the collaboration between law enforcement, local communities, and various stakeholders in safeguarding educational institutions across the region.
Epkeji opened the forum by acknowledging the unwavering commitment of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeola Egbetokun, to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Nigeria. He highlighted the IGP’s dedication to implementing the Federal Government’s initiative to create safer schools, emphasizing the critical role of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) in achieving this goal.
Following successful similar events in Kaduna and Niger States earlier in the year, which saw significant participation, the Abuja forum aimed to build on these successes by engaging a broader spectrum of stakeholders in the FCT. The goal was to foster a more effective partnership between the Nigeria Police, other security agencies, and community members, ensuring that schools remain secure environments conducive to learning.
The forum also underscored the importance of community involvement in the protection of schools. Epkeji stressed that the Federal Government places high priority on the Safe Schools Project, an initiative designed to secure educational institutions and promote national development. The Nigeria Police Force has fully embraced this project by establishing the Schools Protection Squad in every state and the FCT, alongside comprehensive training programs for State Coordinators and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) nationwide.
A key focus of the event was the inclusion of critical stakeholders such as community and religious leaders, youth organizations, civil society organizations (CSOs), sister security agencies, and the FCT Administration. Recognizing the vital role these groups play in safeguarding schools, the forum aimed to strengthen their involvement in reducing the number of out-of-school children and enhancing overall school security.
In his closing remarks, the DIG called for ongoing cooperation and support from all stakeholders to ensure the success of this collaborative effort. He emphasized the need for continuous engagement and partnership to prevent any potential attacks on schools and create a resilient community dedicated to protecting its children.
The two-day forum concluded with a message of hope and determination, as participants prepared to take the knowledge and strategies discussed back to their respective communities, ensuring that the safety and security of schools in Abuja remain a top priority.
