March 10, (THEWILL) – Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has assured residents that his administration is taking decisive steps to enhance security across schools in the state.
Speaking at the opening of a Stakeholders’ Forum on school security and the training of the Schools Protection Squad at the Government House, Kano, on Monday, Yusuf reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding students and teachers.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Ali Makoda, emphasised that ensuring a safe learning environment is a priority.
Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle, National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad, underscored the urgency of the initiative, stressing that school security remains a top concern for the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
He highlighted the increasing threats to education, including kidnappings, homicides, and school infrastructure attacks, which have forced school closures and contributed to a rise in the number of out-of-school children.
Citing the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools, he noted that between 2012 and 2016, over 600 teachers were killed in violent attacks, while more than 19,000 were displaced.
The forum, themed Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities, aligns with the national plan to finance safe schools.
Shogunle explained that the plan aims to protect schools, learners, teachers, and staff from attacks while working towards reducing the number of out-of-school children and improving Nigeria’s human capital index.
“The policy provides clear guidelines and a framework to ensure safe and secure learning environments in schools nationwide,” he stated.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
