JUST IN: Nigeria Police Force introduces Schools Protection Squad

The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the establishment of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) to ensure the security of lives and properties in schools across the nation.

TrackNews Media reports that the SPS is a specialized unit within the Nigeria Police Force tasked with drawing up policies and engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of students, teachers, and school infrastructure.

The squad will be equipped with relevant assets and advanced training to respond effectively to security issues affecting educational institutions.

In addition to the SPS, the IGP said it has also concluded plans to launch a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) handbook for the Safe Schools Programme. The SOP handbook outlines the best practices and guidelines for securing schools, risk assessment, emergency response protocols, and collaboration between various stakeholders.

The IGP has called on all relevant stakeholders to actively participate and support the Safe Schools Programme, saying this can help Nigeria build a robust education system that guarantees a secure and conducive learning environment for every child.

“The official launch and training event is scheduled to take place on 9th of August 2023, with the participation of 250 individuals drawn from various sectors, including the presidency, executive, judiciary, legislature, security agencies, civil society organizations, media, school administrators, unions, and other stakeholders,” Adejobi explained in a statement on Monday.