In response to growing concerns over school safety, the Nigeria Police Force has launched a training programme for the newly established School Protection Squad in Kano State, located in North-West Nigeria.
This squad is designed to respond to any security threats within schools across the state.
The training event gathered a diverse group of key stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, vigilante groups, hunters, students, community leaders, civil society organisations, parents, and teachers, all of whom play a role in ensuring the security of schools.
Commissioner of Police Abayomi Segunle, National Coordinator of the School Protection Squad at the Force Headquarters, addressed participants, emphasising the directives from the Inspector General of Police to ensure inclusive policing.
He outlined the importance of involving both uniformed officers and other community stakeholders in safeguarding schools.
Segunle also encouraged parents to maintain close communication with their children and teachers, fostering a collaborative approach to identifying potential threats.
He urged all participants, including students, teachers, parents, and the broader public, to report any suspicious activities to the squad or the nearest police station for immediate action.
A research scholar and digital forensics expert, Isa Musa, gave a presentation on how modern technology can improve school security.
He advocated for the installation of CCTV cameras in key areas of schools to monitor activity and detect suspicious behavior.
Musa further suggested that collaboration between the police and the National Identification Management Commission could enhance the effectiveness of technology deployment and data management for school security.
Musa also proposed equipping boarding schools with emergency response and communication systems that could transmit real-time alerts from dormitories to security personnel.
He recommended the use of drones and geo-fencing technologies to monitor school premises and identify any unauthorised entry, as well as the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive security interventions.
Additionally, the Special Adviser to the Kano State Government on Community Policing, Maimuna Sherif spoke on creating a safer and more supportive learning environment.
She emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to address gender-based violence (GBV) in schools, including regular training for students, teachers, and staff on GBV awareness and prevention.
Many participants described the training as timely, insightful, and educational, with a strong commitment to carrying out the tasks outlined in the programme.
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