The Ogun State Police Command yesterday inaugurated a Schools Protection Squad (SPS) in Abeokuta, aligning with the Inspector-General of Police’s Safe School Initiative.

Speaking at the event, State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, described the launch as a significant step in securing educational institutions, which he referred to as “nurturing grounds for future leaders.”

He underscored the importance of education as a cornerstone of societal progress and stressed the need to protect schools from threats that could disrupt learning or endanger lives.

“The recent surge in violence and insecurity in schools demands a holistic approach to safety,” Alamutu said, adding that ensuring school safety is not just an administrative duty but a collective moral responsibility. He emphasised that a secure learning environment fosters academic and social growth while promoting community stability.

“When schools are safe, the entire community benefits, producing productive citizens who contribute positively to society. Conversely, vulnerability in schools can create ripple effects of fear and instability in our communities,” he noted.

The commissioner revealed that the SPS is a dedicated team of trained personnel tasked with fortifying schools against threats through regular patrols, training for educators and administrators, and intelligence-led policing.

He stressed the importance of collaboration among law enforcement, educational authorities, parents, and community stakeholders in building resilience and promoting a culture of safety in schools.
In another event, Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the police for the initiative and described it as a practical demonstration of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He highlighted the importance of protecting schools, which he termed “sanctuaries of hope and growth for children and youth,” and lamented the increasing security threats to educational institutions in recent years, including violence and kidnapping

He spoke at the opening ceremony of a two-day strategic forum on the protection of schools in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

He said the workshop meant to find the ways through which schools and other institutions of learning in the  20 Local Councils can be well protected was a practical demonstration of the commitment of Nigeria Police, to ensure the security of lives and property; using the power in collaboration and partnership. 

  He, however, regretted that, in recent years, these institutions have been increasingly vulnerable to security threats ranging from violence to kidnapping, and other forms of unrest.

  To counter these threats, the governor called for a comprehensive approach involving all stakeholders—government, local communities, security agencies, parents, and the private sector. He also urged host communities to strengthen their collaboration with schools, noting their pivotal role in ensuring safety.

“Community engagement and participation are critical to creating an environment where students and educators feel safe and supported,” he added.