Nigeria police launch community-based security strategy for school safety

From Abel Leonard, Lafia

The Nigeria Police Force has introduced a community-based framework under the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) programme to strengthen school security nationwide.

The initiative was unveiled on Tuesday, May 27, at the conclusion of a two-day stakeholders’ forum and training in Lafia, themed “Inter-Agency Collaboration for the Safety and Security of Schools in Nasarawa State.” The forum called for continued investment in security training and infrastructure across educational institutions.

Commissioner of Police in charge of the programme at Force Headquarters in Abuja, Mr. Abayomi Shogunle, described the strategy as a significant step toward safeguarding students and restoring public confidence in the education sector. “This training is critical for enhancing our operational effectiveness and building trust with communities. We are empowering our officers and partners with practical tools to detect and respond to threats around schools swiftly,” Shogunle stated.

He urged traditional rulers, youth groups, and religious bodies to take ownership of the initiative to ensure children can learn in safe environments free from fear.

Assistant Commissioner of Police and State Coordinator of the programme in Nasarawa, Sanusi Jidda, affirmed that SPS personnel are fully equipped to carry out their responsibilities without compromise.

Resource person Dr. Benjamin Tough emphasised the need for continuous grassroots advocacy and capacity-building, noting that the programme’s success depends on sustained community involvement and awareness.

Experts, including representatives from the military, Department of State Services (DSS), vigilante groups, and local hunters, stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration to tackle emerging threats to schools during panel discussions.