The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Monday launched the Safe Schools Initiative and formally inaugurated the Schools Protection Squad of the Osun State Police Command in Osogbo, the state capital. Represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police Fred Emuobo, Zone XI, the IGP stated that the establishment of the Schools Protection Squad marked a significant step towards a comprehensive and inclusive approach to securing learning environments nationwide.
He explained that the initiative would include training for teachers, administrators, and security personnel to identify and respond to security threats in schools, thereby making educational institutions safer for children. Egbetokun disclosed that he had directed all Commissioners of Police within the zone to initiate meetings with key stakeholders to guarantee the safety of schools and prevent future attacks.
“As sanctuaries of knowledge and nurturing grounds for future leaders, our schools are pivotal to national development. Their security is paramount, and it is our collective responsibility to shield them from potential threats. To achieve this, I have directed the Commissioners of Police within the zone to engage stakeholders in meetings to guarantee school safety.
“The success of this initiative requires collaboration between educational authorities, community leaders, and security agencies. As we launch the Schools Protection Squad, we mark a significant stride towards an inclusive approach to school safety,” the IGP said.
The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, noted that while the state remained generally peaceful, some schools had recorded pockets of crisis requiring urgent attention from both law enforcement and education sector actors. In this seminar, we will discuss critical issues, best practices, and innovative solutions to address the security challenges facing our schools. “I am confident that the insights and experiences shared will empower us to develop effective strategies for safeguarding our educational institutions,” Gotan said.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, pledged the state government’s full support for the programme. “The present administration in Osun State is highly impressed by this proactive initiative. “No investment is too much when it comes to the future of our children. Our schools are the sanctuaries of knowledge and the breeding ground for future leaders.
“Education remains a top priority for our government, and we are fully committed to keying into this safety initiative spearheaded by the Nigeria Police. The Osun State Government stands firm and ready to support the implementation of safety initiatives that protect our schools and host communities across the state. It is heartwarming to note that Osun State has so far recorded zero attacks on educational institutions. This is an achievement we must all work hard to sustain,” he said.
