Defence Minister Promises Enhanced Security for Schools Nationwide

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening security around schools across Nigeria in order to guarantee a safe, stable, and supportive learning environment for students.

The minister made this assurance on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving an award from the National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN). The award recognised his contributions to protecting educational institutions and promoting the Safe Schools Initiative, a programme designed to address security threats affecting schools.

Speaking at the event, Musa emphasised that meaningful education cannot take place in an atmosphere of fear or insecurity. He noted that the government would continue working closely with parents, teachers, school authorities, and other relevant stakeholders to safeguard students and educational facilities nationwide.

According to him, security remains a fundamental requirement for effective teaching and learning, stressing that without safety, academic progress becomes almost impossible.

“Without security, there will not be a good learning environment. We will continue to work seriously to ensure that our schools are safe. Let us continue to work hand-in-hand—parents, teachers, government, and society—to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential,” the minister stated.

Musa further explained that the recognition from NAPTAN had strengthened his determination to pursue policies and initiatives that enhance education quality across the country. He highlighted the importance of providing a secure, inclusive environment for students, equipping teachers with proper resources and training, and encouraging stronger collaboration between schools, families, and local communities.

He described parents and teachers as vital partners in national development, noting that discipline and quality education are essential to raising responsible citizens and preventing future social instability.

Earlier, the President of NAPTAN, Haruna Danjuma, said the minister’s appointment reflected his long-standing dedication to national security. He particularly praised Musa’s role in initiating the Safe Schools Programme during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.

Danjuma explained that the programme had restored confidence among parents and helped improve school attendance, especially in areas affected by insecurity. He noted that fears of kidnappings, attacks, and other criminal activities had previously discouraged many families from sending their children to school.

According to the association, parents across different parts of the country have benefited from improved security measures around vulnerable schools. The award, he said, was presented to encourage the minister to sustain and expand these protective efforts.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, commended the minister’s leadership and described the award as a clear recognition of his commitment to protecting both Nigeria’s national security and the future of its children.

Pheelangwa added that the ministry would continue collaborating with education stakeholders to ensure that security and education advance together.

Concerns over school safety have intensified in recent years due to repeated attacks and kidnappings involving students and teachers by bandits and other criminal groups in some regions of the country. These incidents have disrupted academic activities, forced school closures, and heightened anxiety among parents, educators, and policymakers.