By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Asaba
DELTA: The Nigeria Police Force has taken a bold step towards addressing rising threats to educational institutions with the launch of a Safe School Protection Squad in Delta State. The initiative, unveiled on April 22 by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun (PhD), who was represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5 Benin, AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, aims to shield schools from violent attacks, abductions, and other security breaches.
The two day stakeholders’ forum that accompanied the launch, held under the theme Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education, brought together top government officials, traditional rulers, security agencies, educators, students, and civil society organizations.
The IGP, in his address, described the protection squad as a cornerstone of the national Safe School Initiative. “The officers have been specially trained and equipped to respond swiftly to any distress or threats that may endanger students or school staff,” he said.
Speaking during the event, the National Coordinator of the Safe School Protection Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle (PhD), noted that Nigeria has in recent years witnessed disturbing incidents of attacks on schools, leading to closures and a surge in out-of-school children.
“We must understand that the right to education is non-negotiable. A secure school environment is critical to human capital development and national growth,” he stated, recalling Nigeria’s commitment to the global Safe School Declaration, which it endorsed in December 2019.
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, lauded the police leadership for the initiative. “We commend the Inspector General of Police for prioritizing the safety of our children. This is a timely intervention in the face of growing insecurity,” Emu remarked.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), CFR, represented by the Obi of Obulunor; CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, Delta State Commissioner of Police; representatives from the National Security Adviser’s office; as well as members of the National Association of Nigerian Students, vigilantes, hunters, and other grassroots security actors.
To further boost response time in emergencies, the Nigeria Police announced that the Safe School Protection Command and Control Centre will operate a 24-hour emergency line at 08077357777 for use by any citizen across the country.
The Delta State Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, emphasized that the initiative will be community-driven, ensuring that local residents, educators, and security agencies work together to keep schools secure.