The Nigerian Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has set up a new unit called the School Protection Squad in Benue State. This is part of a wider Safe School Initiative launched in Makurdi to keep schools safer.

At the event, Egbetokun was represented by Zacharia Achinyan, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4. He said this plan shows the police’s strong commitment to protecting students, teachers, and school buildings across Nigeria.

He explained that making schools safe needs good teamwork between schools, community leaders, and the police.

The IGP also said that safe schools mean safe futures because schools train the next generation of leaders. That’s why it’s very important to make sure they are secure.

He told police commissioners in the zone to meet with important groups and plan better ways to protect schools. He added that police will use modern technology and smart planning to guard schools better.

Egbetokun also called on parents, schools, and communities to support the police in creating a safe and healthy place for children to learn. He said everyone should work together and stay committed to student safety.

The Police Commissioner in Benue State, Emenari Ifeanyi, said the meeting, which focused on “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities,” is coming at the right time. He mentioned that Benue is facing serious problems like cultism, robbery, kidnapping, and child trafficking.

He warned that with the number of schools in the state, criminals must not be allowed to harm children. He said children are the future and must be protected at all costs.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by Secretary to the State Government Deborah Aber, also spoke at the event. He said the state is working hard to make schools safer.

He mentioned some ongoing projects like starting special security patrols, giving out patrol vehicles and bikes, and building a School Response Centre to handle emergencies.