The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has officially launched the Safe School Initiative in Benue State, inaugurating a dedicated school protection squad in Makurdi as part of efforts to enhance security in educational institutions.

During the launch ceremony, IGP Egbetokun, represented by AIG Zone 4, Mr. Zacharia Achinyan, emphasized that the initiative stems from his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of students and educational institutions across the country.

"The Safe Schools is where a culture of safety for our students, teachers, staff and our communities at large is ensured," Egbetokun stated. "Our schools are not only sanctuaries of knowledge, but also a nurturing ground for the future leaders of our country; this means that the security of our schools determines the security of our future."

The IGP disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force would leverage modern technology and intelligence-led policing to maintain proactive law enforcement presence around schools. He has directed all Commissioners of Police within the Zone to engage with various stakeholders to guarantee school safety.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emenari Ifeanyi, noted that the stakeholders' forum themed "strengthening security resilience and integration of host communities" was timely, as Benue has faced numerous security challenges including cultism, robbery, kidnapping, and child trafficking.

"Benue state has many schools and we must not allow criminal minded individuals to take advantage of any situation to harm our children. Our children are our future and must be protected," CP Ifeanyi emphasized.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Deborah Aber, assured that the state government is implementing comprehensive measures to provide safe and secure learning environments. These include launching special security operations, distributing motorcycles and vehicles to support conventional security agencies, and constructing a state schools response center for coordinating emergency situations.

The Safe School Initiative represents a collaborative effort between educational authorities, community leaders, and security agencies to protect schools from potential threats, underscoring the critical importance of educational security to Nigeria's future.