Bauchi State commissioner of police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has expressed concern over the increasing security threats facing schools across the country, noting that educational institutions have become targets of criminal activities such as banditry, kidnapping, violent attacks, cultism, drug abuse, and other acts capable of disrupting academic activities.
The commissioner stated that these threats have continued to create fear among students, teachers, parents, and guardians, while reaffirming the Bauchi State Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of schools in the state.
Aliyu made the remarks yesterday during the inauguration of the State Safe School Initiative Implementation Task Force in Bauchi.
According to him, the growing security challenges confronting schools require collective action, and the responsibility for protecting educational institutions should not be left solely to the police.
“It is in recognition of these challenges that the Inspector-General of Police directed commands across the country to strengthen security around schools and educational institutions through proactive policing, inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-led operations, stakeholders’ engagement,” he said.
The Police Commissioner added that, in compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, state police commands across the country have taken deliberate steps to reinforce the implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative by establishing multi-stakeholder task force committees.
He explained that effective protection of schools requires strong collaboration among security agencies, government institutions, school authorities, traditional and religious leaders, parents, community groups, and other critical stakeholders.
CP Aliyu urged members of the committee to approach their assignment with commitment, patriotism, and a strong sense of responsibility.
“We must work collectively to identify vulnerable areas, strengthen preventive measures, improve intelligence sharing, establish effective emergency response mechanisms, and ensure that our schools remain safe and conducive environments for teaching and learning,” he stated.
In a paper presentation on the current security situation in schools across Bauchi State, the Coordinator of the Safe Schools Initiative, ACP Muhammad Musa Ahmadu, explained that the committee’s framework of action is designed to protect schools and communities against violence and other security threats.
He noted that the initiative has continued to promote collaboration among schools, security agencies, and host communities, describing the partnership as essential to safeguard schools against criminal activity and ensure a safe environment for learning.
ACP Ahmadu further stated that the initiative is strengthening efforts to protect communities against violence and insecurity. At the same time, community associations and local stakeholders also play critical roles in supporting national security strategies.
“The initiative remains committed to strengthening intelligence gathering, supporting security operations, enhancing school safety measures, and building the capacity of relevant institutions and communities. ”
