By Barth Ikiebe in Lafia.
The National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS), Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle, has disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is deploying advanced technology and intelligence tools to bolster security in schools nationwide.
Speaking on Tuesday in Lafia during the second day of a stakeholders’ forum on school security, Shogunle,who also serves at the Force Headquarters in Abuja,said the initiative is aimed at proactively countering threats such as kidnapping and banditry in educational institutions.
“The squad has already begun deploying modern technology to monitor and swiftly respond to threats around school environments,” he said.
“This is a proactive initiative, and we urge schools, parents, and communities to report any security breaches through our dedicated communication channels.”
Shogunle explained that the SPS was established by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to focus exclusively on the protection of students, teachers, and school infrastructure across the country.
He emphasized that the squad is working in partnership with other security agencies at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure schools are adequately secured.
The two-day forum, which concluded with the formal inauguration of the SPS in Nasarawa State, brought together stakeholders from the education and security sectors.
Represented by AIG Zachariah Achinyan of Zone 4, Makurdi, the Inspector General reiterated the Force’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s educational system.
“Schools are the foundation of our nation’s future. Ensuring their safety is ensuring our future,” Egbetokun said.
Also speaking, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations in Nasarawa State, Sanusi Jida, noted that the SPS initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects the core duty of the police to protect lives and property.
“The people of Nasarawa State can expect enhanced security patrols around all schools, supported by trained personnel and adequate logistics,” Jida stated.
In his presentation, Dr. Benjamin Tough, a lecturer at Benue State University, described the initiative as timely and strategic.
He commended the integration of modern security gadgets, saying it is a crucial step toward creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students and educators alike.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
