Safe schools: Group commends IGP for creating school protection squad

A Nigeria-based non-profit organization that advocates access to quality education for all, Milestone Agenda for Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative (MAFYEDI), has applauded the Acting-Inspector General of Police, Sunday Egbetokun, for creating the School Protection Squad, an initiative aimed at enhancing the safety of schools and children.

Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, earlier disclosed that the Schools Protection Squad is a specialized unit within the Nigeria Police tasked with drawing up policies and engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure safety and protection of students, teachers and school infrastructure.

“The squad will be equipped with relevant assets and advanced training to effectively respond to security challenges facing educational institutions across the country,” he added.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Executive Director of MAFYEDI, Zainab Yaqub, said the initiative represents a significant step toward ensuring safety and security of schools, children, and teachers across the nation.

She noted that the latest initiative by the Police demonstrated the commitment of the federal government to the Safe Schools Declaration (SSD).

The statement reads in part: “As an organization that is deeply committed to the safety, well-being and development of children, we commend the Inspector General of Police, IGP Sunday Egbetokun for launching this initiative aimed at preventing attacks on schools and children across the country.  

“The establishment of the School Protection Squad demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting the future of our nation – our children – and fostering an environment where students and teachers can engage in teaching and learning activities without the fear of being attacked or kidnapped.

“This initiative demonstrates the commitment of the federal government to the Safe Schools Declaration (SSD). The Safe Schools Declaration (SSD) is a global intergovernmental political commitment that provides countries with the opportunity to express support for protecting students, teachers, schools, and universities from attack in times of armed conflict.

“By focusing on the safety of educational institutions, the Nigeria Police is not only enhancing the physical security of students and educators, but also creating an atmosphere conducive for effective teaching and learning. This initiative sends a powerful message that education is a fundamental right that must be safeguarded at all costs.

“We acknowledge the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who will serve in the School Protection Squad. Their presence will undoubtedly provide reassurance to parents, teachers, and students alike, allowing them to focus on the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

“Our organization expresses full support to the Nigeria Police and encourages collaboration between law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and communities to create a holistic and comprehensive approach to school safety.

“We are committed to working alongside all stakeholders to promote safe and inclusive learning environment where children can get the quality education they need to unlock their full potential and contribute to building a better society”.

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