In a decisive step to address rising security concerns affecting schools in Nigeria, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has officially inaugurated the School Protection Squad (SPS) in Edo State. The launch, held on Friday, April 25, 2025, is aimed at establishing safer educational spaces for both learners and educators.
The initiative, described as a landmark achievement, reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive stance on enhancing the security architecture in the country’s learning environments. Represented by AIG Zone 5, Benin, Salman Garba-Dogo, the IGP emphasized that the SPS is not only a rapid response team but also a unit built for community integration and preventive action.
Building Trust Through Engagement and Vigilance
According to Egbetokun, the SPS officers will play a multifaceted role in ensuring school safety. Their core mandate includes assessing potential threats, responding swiftly to incidents, fostering trust with students and staff, and educating the school community about personal safety and emergency awareness.
“This goes beyond physical protection — we are fostering emotional assurance and a sense of security among students, teachers, and parents. Every child deserves to learn without fear,” said Egbetokun.
The Inspector General further disclosed that the program is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Education, school administrators, and Parent-Teacher Associations. The goal is to make school safety a collective responsibility through continuous engagement and awareness campaigns.
Edo Government Backs Federal School Safety Vision
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, represented by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, expressed the state’s full support for the national school protection initiative. He highlighted that ensuring the security of children in educational institutions is pivotal to Nigeria’s development.
The governor’s office has already initiated several safety-enhancing actions, such as constructing perimeter fencing around schools, deploying the state security corps to rural areas, and integrating mandatory guidance and counseling services within schools.
“Education is the bedrock of our future. To protect it, we must face the challenges threatening our schools head-on with a united and strategic approach,” he noted.
Training and Rapid Response Mechanism
National Coordinator of the SPS and Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Shogunle, elaborated on the operational strategy of the unit. Over 65 trained police officers across Edo State’s three senatorial zones will engage in school safety awareness campaigns, emergency drills, and real-time response to threats.
He added that a dedicated 24/7 call center has been set up to handle distress calls from students, teachers, parents, and community members across the country, ensuring timely intervention.
“Prevention is more cost-effective and impactful than reaction. Our focus is to build a sustainable peace infrastructure around schools,” Shogunle affirmed.
The stakeholders’ meeting held in Benin City had the theme: “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education.” It brought together law enforcement, education officials, community leaders, and parents in a united front to reinforce Nigeria’s educational landscape against insecurity.
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