IGP Unveils Schools Protection Squad in Osun, Calls for Unified Front Against Attacks

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has officially launched the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) in Osun State, calling for comprehensive collaboration among all stakeholders to safeguard educational institutions from attacks. The initiative, unveiled on Monday, June 23, 2025, in Osogbo, aims to combat the rising threats of kidnapping, homicide, and destruction of school infrastructure across the nation.

Represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone XI, Emuobo Ekokotu, the IGP emphasized that schools are “sanctuaries of knowledge and nurturing grounds for future leaders,” making their security paramount. “It is our collective responsibility to shield them from potential threats,” Egbetokun stated during a training programme for education stakeholders themed “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in the Protection of Education,” held at the Local Government Service Commission in Abere.

The IGP disclosed that Commissioners of Police within Zone XI have been directed to engage with education stakeholders and community leaders to develop collaborative strategies for enhanced school safety. The newly inaugurated SPS will provide crucial training for educators, administrators, and security personnel, equipping them to recognize and respond effectively to security threats. This approach signifies a “significant stride towards an inclusive approach to school safety.”

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, commended the IGP for prioritizing school safety. He noted with pride that Osun State has, to date, recorded no attacks on its educational institutions, an achievement he urged all stakeholders to work hard to sustain through continuous collaboration. Governor Adeleke also called on the police to leverage modern technology and intelligence-led policing for proactive security enforcement around school environments.

Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, the National Coordinator of the SPS from Force Headquarters, highlighted the severe consequences of attacks on schools, including kidnappings, infrastructure destruction, and an increase in out-of-school children. He further revealed that the Nigeria Police Force has established a 24/7 emergency response center dedicated to handling school-related incidents and integrating host communities into their security framework. Osun State is among the pilot states for the SPS programme, aligning with the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The two-day forum in Osogbo will bring together various stakeholders, including religious and community leaders, educational authorities, and government agencies, to deliberate on best practices and innovative solutions for bolstering school safety across the state.