By Barth Ikiebe
The National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, has revealed that the Nigeria Police Force is already deploying modern technologies and intelligent tools to protect schools across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday in Lafia during the second day of the stakeholders’ forum on school security, Shogunle, who is also a Commissioner of Police at Force Headquarters in Abuja, said the use of advanced security gadgets is a key part of the squad’s strategy to proactively tackle threats such as kidnapping and banditry in educational institutions.
“The squad has already begun deploying modern technology to monitor and respond swiftly to threats around school environments,” he stated.
“This is a proactive initiative, and we urge schools, parents, and communities to report any breaches through our dedicated communication channels.”
According to Shogunle, the Schools Protection Squad was specially created by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to focus solely on the safety of students, teachers, and academic infrastructure nationwide.
He noted that the SPS is working in collaboration with other security agencies at all levels to ensure schools are well-secured.
The two-day forum, which culminated in the formal inauguration of the squad in Nasarawa State, brought together key stakeholders in the education and security sectors.
Represented by AIG Zachariah Achinyan of Zone 4, Makurdi, the Inspector General of Police reiterated the Force’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s educational institutions.
He described schools as the foundation of the nation’s future and emphasized the importance of intelligent policing.
“We cannot overemphasize the role of schools in national development. Ensuring their safety is ensuring our future,” Egbetokun noted.
Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations in Nasarawa State, Sanusi Jida, added that the SPS initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects the core responsibility of the police to protect lives and property.
“The people of Nasarawa State can expect robust security patrols around all schools, supported by trained personnel and adequate logistics,” Jida assured.
In a presentation during the forum, Dr. Benjamin Tough, a lecturer from Benue State University, commended the initiative, describing it as a strategic and timely response to the growing security challenges facing Nigeria’s education system.
He noted that the deployment of modern gadgets and preventive security mechanisms is a crucial step toward creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students and educators across the country.
