Enhancing Security: Police Chief advocates for Cooperation among Security Forces in Niger

The call for collaboration and partnership between the Police, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders in Niger State to ensure adequate security for students, teachers, and schools across the region was emphasized by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

During the Strategic Stakeholders Forum on School Security in Niger State and the Training of School Protection Squad organized by the State Government in Minna in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force, the IGP stressed the importance of working together to protect students and educators.

Represented by AIG Zone 7 Abuja, Ogundele Joshua Ayodele, Egbetokun highlighted the Police’s primary role in maintaining law and order and safeguarding educational institutions during crises.

He underscored the significance of the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools (NPSSVFS) 2021, outlining the NPF’s responsibilities in securing students, teachers, and educational facilities.

“The establishment of a Rapid Response Unit co-located with Schools during emergencies, and the development of Operational Guidelines for safeguarding students and teachers are crucial aspects,” Egbetokun noted.

The IGP expressed gratitude to the Niger State Government and the 25 LG Councils for their unwavering support towards enhancing the efficiency of the State Police Command in carrying out its mandate.

Meanwhile, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, urged forum participants to deliberate on strategies that will enhance the security and resilience of schools, particularly in rural areas affected by banditry and other security challenges.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG Abubakar Usman, Bago emphasized the necessity of creating a safe learning environment to enable students to excel, drive increased enrollment rates, and boost economic growth in the state.

“The significance of a secure learning space in the overall development of our children cannot be overstated. Every child deserves an education without fear and in a safe society,” Bago emphasized.

Furthermore, he mentioned the state government’s acquisition of 4 bulletproof personnel carriers as part of efforts to address insecurity within the region.