Nasarawa students demand community-based approach to terrorism
Students call for collaboration between security agencies, government, and communities
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Secondary school students in Nasarawa State have called on the federal government and the Nigerian Army to adopt a community-based approach to tackling terrorism and insurgency. This approach, they believe, will enhance the safety of all learning institutions across the country.
The students made this call on Wednesday during a public speaking engagement at the Federal Science and Technical College in Doma, Nasarawa State. The event was organised by troops of the 4 Special Forces Command Doma as part of activities marking the 2024 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
*Sun* reports that the public speaking engagement provided an opportunity for the school children to interact with soldiers on their mode of operations and other security concerns.
The Commander, 4 Special Forces Command Doma, Major General Hilary Nzan, represented by Colonel Ebiowei Odede, stressed the importance of building confidence in the Nigerian Army.
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According to Major General Nzan, the driving forces behind acts of terrorism and insurgency are drug abuse and [extremist] ideologies. He emphasised the need to expose school children to the dangers of indulging in criminal activities.
The students, in turn, called on the government and security agencies to develop a strategic plan aimed at sustainable intelligence gathering and information sharing to ensure their safety.
Halima Isa and Kassam Seyilnen, two of the students, urged the government and security agencies to work together to address the issues. They emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling terrorism and insurgency.
The Principal of Federal Science and Technical College, Doma, Mrs Grace Golen, commended the initiative, stating that it was unprecedented and timely. She highlighted the growing need for adequate security measures to protect schools from terrorism and insurgency.
The public speaking engagement featured various activities, including paper presentations on career opportunities in the Nigerian Army, advocacy against cultism, drug and substance abuse, and the importance of imbibing honesty and integrity at all times.
