The Commander of the National Safe School Response Coordination Centre, Hameed Abodunrin, expressed dismay over the absence of security officers, perimeter fences, and other safety measures in schools nationwide.
Speaking in Abuja regarding the recurring kidnapping incidents, Abodunrin revealed that around 70% of Nigerian schools lack sufficient security measures, leaving them vulnerable to such incidents.
The United Nations Children’s Fund reports that in the last decade alone, over 1,680 children have been abducted and approximately 180 killed in attacks on Nigerian schools by non-state actors. Notable affected schools include the Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State; Government Girls’ Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State; Government Science College in Kagara, Niger State; and the Apostolic Faith Group of Schools in Emure, Ekiti State, among others.
Abodunrin explained, “The essence of our center is to coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders, including security agencies and educational authorities, to address these deficiencies.
“Initially, schools were hesitant to register with the national database, fearing additional taxation, but the focus has shifted towards enhancing their security through better coordination and rapid response capabilities.
“Registration helps us to quickly locate and reach schools during emergencies without needing to ask for directions, thanks to technologies like Google Maps.”
Abodunrin also highlighted the challenges posed by poor telecommunications networks, particularly in remote areas like Kaduna, which hinder timely communication during crises.
He called on state governments to ensure that all schools across the country were properly registered and protected.