The Federal Government has announced plans to strengthen coordination of the Safe Schools Initiative in partnership with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as part of efforts to improve safety across schools nationwide.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during a visit to the NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi, in Abuja, noting that the government remains committed to protecting students and ensuring uninterrupted academic activities across the country. He emphasized that attacks on schools are unacceptable and require proactive security measures.
According to the minister, the government is shifting from reactive responses to sustained preventive strategies, particularly in schools located in vulnerable communities. He stressed that safeguarding schools requires collaboration among government agencies, security operatives, and host communities.
As part of the new strategy, the Federal Ministry of Education is establishing a dedicated Safe Schools department to enhance coordination with the NSCDC and other security agencies. The initiative will also incorporate technology-driven solutions, including emergency alert systems designed to improve response time during security threats.
Dr. Alausa further revealed that the government is exploring sustainable funding mechanisms to support school security operations and reduce delays often associated with budgetary releases.
Speaking during the meeting, NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi said nationwide vulnerability assessments indicate that more than 60,000 out of about 81,000 schools lack adequate security infrastructure. He explained that many schools remain exposed due to insufficient fencing and the absence of security personnel.
Audi added that the corps has introduced specialised female squads and strengthened community-based security structures, which have helped prevent several potential attacks on schools. However, he identified inadequate funding as a major challenge affecting the effective implementation of school protection programmes.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deeper collaboration aimed at creating safer learning environments, a move expected to strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s education system and support community stability.