Police assure Lagos schools of safety

The Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has assured schools of adequate protection against prevailing security threats.

The Federal Government on Monday formally launched the Safe Schools Initiative in Lagos, part of efforts to safeguard learning environments from increasing security challenges.

In response, a two-day stakeholders’ forum was held at POWA Hall, Ikeja, to discuss school security and train members of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS).

The forum had the theme: ‘Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education.’

Jimoh gave his assurance on Tuesday while speaking to journalists during the forum’s second day.

He stated that the police would act proactively to tackle criminal elements and prevent security breaches in schools.

“We are going to do more in the area of safety and security of our schools,” he said.

According to him, much of the equipment acquired by the State General Office has already been distributed.

“This includes patrol vans and motorcycles to be deployed around schools, as well as scientifically driven security equipment,” he noted.

Jimoh added that drones and other surveillance tools had already been deployed to enhance school safety across the state.

He said that school owners, heads, headmasters, headmistresses, and principals would be trained to detect and respond to early warning signs.

“Outside the school premises, we have police officers stationed in the surrounding communities to ensure continued protection,” Jimoh explained.

He added that police presence would also be reinforced in rural, border and riverine areas of Lagos State.

Mr Abayomi Shogunle, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the SPS, said the two-day training aimed to build threat recognition skills.

“The training helps officers to identify risks and know how to prevent incidents in or around any school in Lagos,” Shogunle said.

One of the facilitators, Prof. Adedeji Oyenuga of Lagos State University, emphasised the need for modern technology in addressing school security threats.

“Safety measures involve conditions, techniques, and strategies to protect lives, property and the learning environment,” he stated.

He noted that security breaches disrupt learning, traumatising both students and teachers, especially in vulnerable communities.

Prof. Yemisi Obashoro-John of the University of Lagos stressed the importance of early warning and quick response to threats.

“Gathering intelligence alone is not enough. We need awareness, knowledge and early information to act swiftly,” she said.

According to her, protecting schools is a collective duty requiring everyone’s active involvement in maintaining safe learning spaces.