Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has commended the Federal Government for establishing Schools Protection Squad (SPS), to ensure safety of students and teachers in schools across the state.
Soludo, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, gave the commendation on Wednesday in Awka, at a stakeholders forum on the security of schools and training of the SPS, organised by the Nigeria Police Force.
He said the initiative was an apt and proactive measure that would ensure safety in schools across the state.
“Our administration has continued to invest hugely in the education sector, especially with the recruitment of teachers, construction and rehabilitation of schools as well the free education policy.
“The initiative of ensuring adequate security of students and teachers in our schools across the state is paramount and I commend the federal for that.
“I call on teachers, traditional rulers and other community heads to partner with the security agencies especially the Police, in the area of prompt and adequate information on security issues around their communities for timely intervention,” he said.
In his address, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, said the establishment of the squad was part of efforts to ensure the safety and security of schools nationwide.
Egbetokun, who was represented by AIG Godwin Aghaulor of Zone-13 Police Headquarters in Ukpo, harped on the need for collective efforts in provision of the needed safety both in schools and the society at large.
In his remarks, Mr Lanre Ogunlowo, National Coordinator, Schools Protection Squad, said the initiative was aimed at providing a safe teaching and learning environment for teachers and students and reduce the rate of our-of-school children.
The Anambra Commissioner of Police, Mr Nnaghe Obono-Itam, said the police would continue to work harmoniously with relevant stakeholders, including host communities, to confront insecurity in schools.
He called or collective efforts in the fight against insecurity, adding that the police could not do it alone.
