By Tomi Lala
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state has reaffirmed his administration’s deep commitment to the security of schools across the state, declaring that school safety is non-negotiable and that the state government is ready to fully aligned with the Nigeria Police initiative to protect educational institutions.
Governor Adeleke made this known on Monday while speaking at the official opening of the Nigeria Police Force Stakeholders’ Forum on the Security of Schools in Osun State, held at the Local Government Service Commission in Abeere.
The Governor also commended the Inspector General of Police for proactive initiatives, while emphasizing that no investment is too much when it comes to the future of our children.
According to him, the present administration is not only impressed by the launch of the Safe Schools Initiative but is also committed to supporting its full implementation in the state.
He said “The Osun State Government stands firm and ready to support the implementation of safety initiatives that protect our schools and host communities across the state.
“It is heart-warming to note that Osun State has so far recorded zero attacks on educational institutions. This is an achievement we must all work hard to sustain. To this end, there is a growing need for collaboration between educational authorities, community leaders, the police, and other security agencies to shield our schools from potential threats.
“I urge the Nigeria Police to continue adopting modern technology and intelligence-led policing to ensure proactive law enforcement around our educational institutions. Education remains a critical determinant of social and economic progress. Its neglect can reduce a nation to servitude and underdevelopment, even in a world of independence and opportunity.
“Before I conclude, let me reiterate my belief that a deeper synergy between the Nigeria Police and other security agencies in the state will go a long way in sustaining the peace and tranquillity for which Osun is proudly known. Today, Osun remains one of the safest States in Nigeria and we are determined to keep it that way.”
In his remarks, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Emuobo Fred Ekokotu, stressed that the Safe Schools Initiative and the launch of the School Protection Squad (SPS) were born out of the need to embed a culture of safety and ensure the well-being of students, teachers, and host communities.
“I warmly welcome you to the launch of the Inspector General of Police’s Safe Schools Initiative and the formal inauguration of the Osun State Police Command’s Schools Protection Squad (SPS)
“This initiative embodies a culture of safety, ensuring the well-being of students, teachers, staff, and communities. Born out of the IGP’s commitment to securing our educational institutions, it underscores the critical role schools play in shaping our nation’s future.
“To achieve this, I have directed Commissioners of Police within the Zone to engage stakeholders in meetings to guarantee school safety. I urge schools, parents, and communities to work in tandem with law enforcenment agencies to champion the cause of safety and well-being for all our children. Let us invest our efforts, resources, and hearts into fostering a culture of safety in our schools.” He added
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the SPS, CP (Dr.) Abayomi Shogunle, disclosed that the Police Emergency Response Centre now operates 24/7, dedicated to handling school-related emergencies.
” I am delighted to inform this gathering that the Nigeria Police Force now have a 24/7 functioning Emergency Centre dedicated to responding to schools emergencies” he said.
