Nigeria’s federal government is urging state governors to establish Safe School Response Coordination Centers across the country. This initiative follows a recent surge in school kidnappings, particularly in Kaduna and Sokoto states.

Focus on Proactive Measures

Dr. Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Education, emphasized the critical role education plays in national development. He condemned the kidnappings as an attack on the entire education system and a major setback in tackling out-of-school children.

Sununu urged state governors to take proactive steps to safeguard schools in their domain.

He said the inspection became imperative owing to the recent kidnapping of students and teachers in Sokoto and Kaduna States.

“Education is the key ingredient for individuals, communities, and international organizations for rapid development.

“Nigeria is leading globally in areas of out-of-school children in spite of all investments in education; therefore, this attack is unacceptable.

“The abduction of schoolchildren by bandits is an attack on education which should not be condoned.

“We implore all the state governments in Nigeria to see how they can quickly, in the next few weeks, establish their own centre that will be directly connected to this centre,” he said.

The National Safe School Response Coordination Center, established in February 2023, serves as a central hub for coordinating security efforts and addressing school safety concerns. Led by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the center facilitates communication between security agencies, schools, and communities.

Collaboration and Funding Challenges

Sununu commended the NSCDC’s efforts but acknowledged funding as a significant challenge. Hajia Halima Iliya, Head of Financing for the Safe School Secretariat, assured that modalities are being put in place to ensure adequate funding for the project.

The center’s Commandant, Hammed Aboderin, appealed to communities for their cooperation. “Information is crucial,” Aboderin stressed. “Residents must share relevant information with security agencies to enable them to perform their duties effectively.”

The push for nationwide Safe School Response Centers signifies the government’s commitment to prioritizing school safety. While challenges remain, this initiative represents a crucial step towards creating a secure learning environment for Nigerian children.

Source: Vanguard