The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has officially launched the School Protection Squad in Benue State as part of the broader Safe School Initiative. The inauguration ceremony took place in Makurdi on Friday, marking a significant step towards enhancing security in educational institutions across the state.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4, Zacharia Achinyan, who represented the IGP at the event, emphasized that the initiative demonstrates the current police administration's commitment to protecting students, teachers, and educational facilities nationwide.

"Safe schools are spaces where the safety of students, teachers, and communities is guaranteed," Egbetokun stated through his representative. "Our schools are not just centers of learning, but the breeding ground for future leaders. Securing them is equivalent to securing the future of our country."

The IGP has directed all Commissioners of Police in the zone to organize meetings with relevant stakeholders to develop effective strategies for school protection. He highlighted that the police would employ modern technology and intelligence-led policing to maintain proactive security around educational institutions.

"I urge schools, parents, and communities to join hands with law enforcement as we work to create a culture of safety and well-being for all children. We must dedicate our efforts, resources, and commitment to protecting our students," he added.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, described the stakeholders' forum, held under the theme "Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities," as timely given the state's ongoing security challenges.

"Benue faces threats like cultism, robbery, kidnapping, and child trafficking," Ifeanyi explained. "With the number of schools we have, we cannot allow criminal elements to endanger our children. They are the future and must be protected at all costs."

Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Aber, outlined the state government's ongoing initiatives to create a safe learning environment. These include launching special security operations, distributing patrol motorcycles and vehicles, and constructing a State Schools' Response Centre to manage emergencies.

The School Protection Squad is expected to work closely with educational authorities, community leaders, and other security agencies to ensure comprehensive protection of learning environments across Benue State.