Police Launches Special Protection Squad For Ogun Schools

 

 

 

 

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has launched a School Protection Squad (SPS) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a special initiative to fight insecurity in schools in the state.

The launching which had the collaboration of the Ogun State government was jointly held with a stakeholders’ forum on security of schools which had as its theme, "Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Community in the Protection of Education".

Speaking at the event, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, commended the leadership of NPF for coming up with a timely initiative, geared towards tackling insecurity in schools, noting that protection of educational institutions, safety of students and educators was paramount to national growth.

Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, Governor Abiodun, said it was important to strengthen security resilience and integration of host communities for the protection of educational environment, noting that meaningful education, safety of the students and children, as well as sustainable development would bring about brighter future for the nation.

The state helmsman said, ‘’ government understands that it is not enough to provide a secured environment but building of resilience for response and recovery from security threats is also required, holistic approach which involves all stakeholders must be involved together with law enforcement and security measures’’, he said.

Abiodun reiterated that his administration had made significant strides in improving security and safety measures across the state, saying the security architecture include, collaboration with Federal and state agencies, as well as local security outfits and active participation of the communities.

"Local security agencies, such as Ogun State Security Trust Fund and Community Policing initiatives, Amotekun and So Safe Corps are designed to ensure that security was not only government responsibility but a shared communal effort’’, he said.

Speaking earlier, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Adegoke Fayoade, commended the present administration’s support and passion for schools protection in the state, disclosing that the Safe-School project of the Federal Government had made it a top priority to protect schools against attacks.

In his comment, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, said the Force was implementing preventive measures and promoting a culture of safety to identify risk factors specific to each institution through comprehensive assessment and training programmes for educators, administrators and security personnel, who would in turn leverage their acquired skills, to recognise and respond to threats.

Representing the traditional rulers, Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Olugbenle, represented by Olu of Imasayi, Oba Adeleke Kuoye, promised maximum support for the security agencies to accomplish the objective of the Safe-School initiative.

This Safe-School initiative is part of the broader strategy by Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD NPM, aimed at enhancing security in schools nationwide to create safer learning environments.

The program is designed to inform stakeholders about the safety of schools and the initiatives taken by the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that educational facilities in Ogun State are well-equipped with effective safety measures.

These include rapid response deployments, vehicle patrols, technological solutions, and regular training on student security for principals and other school partners.

During the seminar, experts addressed critical issues such as security awareness, early warning systems, emerging challenges in school safety, and the roles of various stakeholders. 

As part of the NPF's proactive approach to issues, especially security matters, the Inspector General introduced the VGS – VIGISCOPE, a Quick Emergency Reporting and Response System designed for schools across the nation. 

This app functions as a responsive alert system linked to a central base in Abuja which is capable of identifying emergencies and coordinating responses. 

It aids in technical intelligence for crime resolution and facilitates police access in difficult areas while ensuring effective information sharing and threat detection.