Nasarawa Governor Advocates Public-Private Collaboration for School Security

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has championed a call for a public-private sector partnership (PPP) to fortify educational institutions nationwide against attacks. The governor, represented by his deputy, Emmanuel Akabe, stressed the collective responsibility of safeguarding education during a sensitisation workshop organized by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC) and Safe Schools program.

The governor, while inaugurating a state safe schools response center in Lafia, applauded the Federal Government's establishment of the NSSRCC. He urged individuals and corporate bodies to contribute to securing education through PPP arrangements, suggesting initiatives like building perimeter fencing and hostels.

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Expressing concern over recent abductions near the Federal University Lafia, Governor Sule declared a curfew in the affected community and thanked security agencies for swift intervention. He pledged continuous support to enhance their performance.

The NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, highlighted over a decade of violence and attacks on schools in Nigeria. He explained that the NSSRCC, under the NSCDC, coordinates safety and security responses against school violence, collaborating with various stakeholders, including federal, state, and local governments.

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Keynote speaker Brig Gen MBG Martins emphasized the need for state governments and stakeholders to support the Safe Schools project. He linked adequate security around schools to increased school enrollment, aligning with the United Nations' promotion of education.

The Nasarawa State NSCDC Commandant, Abbas Bappa Muhammad, stressed the importance of collective consensus and public investment in ensuring safety and security, particularly for vulnerable citizens like school children.

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In attendance were representatives from sister agencies, school children, and Dr. Tersoo Shaapera, Commander of the NSSRCC, who provided an overview of the center's establishment, functions, activities, and plans.