
The Nigerian Police Force has launched a “Safe School Initiative” in Benue State, aimed at bolstering security for students and educational institutions in the region. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun inaugurated the Benue State Police Command School Protection Squad as part of the initiative.
Speaking at the launch event in Makurdi, a representative of the IGP, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zachariah Achinyan, emphasized the urgent need to protect schools from increasing security threats and ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.
“Our schools are not only centers of knowledge but the breeding grounds for the future leaders of our country,” said IGP Egbetokun in a statement. “The Safe School Initiative is about building a culture of safety for our students, teachers, staff, and the broader community. The security of our schools is, ultimately, the security of our future.”
As part of the initiative, all Commissioners of Police nationwide have been instructed to engage with local stakeholders to foster collaboration and ensure comprehensive school safety. The Nigeria Police Force plans to utilize modern technology and intelligence-led policing to maintain a proactive presence around schools and improve response capabilities to potential threats.
The “Safe School Initiative” reflects growing concerns about security in schools across Nigeria and the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges through enhanced policing and community engagement.