The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for the initiative in establishing 24/7 functioning emergency response centres dedicated to addressing school-related emergencies across the country.

According to the Chief Press Secretary to the NAN’s President, Michael Oyewole this landmark effort, led by the National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS), CP Abayomi Shogunle, demonstrated NPF’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of students, teachers, and educational infrastructure, aligning with the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to Oyewale, the announcement made during a stakeholders’ forum in Ibadan, Oyo State, highlighted the NPF’s dedication to creating secure learning environments for Nigerian students.

He said the establishment of these emergency centres, coupled with the deployment of the Schools Protection Squad, marked a significant step toward addressing security challenges such as kidnappings and violence targeting schools, which have disrupted education and instilled fear in communities. NANS applauded the Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to ensuring that schools remain sanctuaries of learning and growth.
 
The NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, recognises the collaborative approach adopted by the NPF, which involves partnerships with other security agencies, educational institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders.

He said that this synergy, as emphasised during the stakeholders’ forum, is crucial for fostering a proactive rather than reactive approach to school safety.