The Federal Government has announced a series of new measures aimed at strengthening the safety of schools and protecting pupils from abductions, bandit attacks, and other security threats affecting the education sector across Nigeria.
The initiative was unveiled by the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Aisha Garba, during a three-day training programme for education stakeholders from the nineteen Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory in Kano.
Represented by the Head of Community Engagement and Social Mobilisation, Patricia Uche, Garba said the growing threat of insecurity around schools had made it necessary to review key operational guidelines for School-Based Management Committees, known as SBMCs.
According to UBEC, the revised guidelines now incorporate critical areas such as school safety, education during emergencies, climate-related challenges, and the prevention of gender-based violence. The commission believes these additions will help communities play a more active role in protecting schools and ensuring that learning continues even during periods of crisis.
Officials noted that recent incidents of banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on educational institutions have disrupted learning in several parts of the country, forcing authorities to adopt a more community-driven approach to school security. The government says the updated framework will empower local communities to identify security risks early, work closely with authorities, and advocate for stronger protective measures.
A major component of the new strategy is the expansion of the Safe School Initiative. UBEC expressed concern that many public primary schools remain unfenced and vulnerable to attacks, making them easy targets for criminal elements. The commission is encouraging communities, traditional leaders, parents, and local organisations to collaborate in safeguarding educational facilities and protecting learners and teachers.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has intensified security arrangements across the state following the circulation of a threatening notice alleging a planned attack and abduction of schoolchildren by bandits. The message, which reportedly appeared at a school, generated anxiety among parents and residents.
However, police authorities have reassured the public that investigations have not revealed any credible intelligence suggesting an imminent attack. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai had ordered an immediate review of security measures and directed the deployment of additional officers to schools, vulnerable communities, and other strategic locations as a precaution.
The command emphasized that security agencies remain on high alert and are working closely with relevant stakeholders to prevent criminal groups from infiltrating the state. Parents and school administrators have also been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies.
The latest developments come amid nationwide concerns over attacks on schools and the growing threat of kidnapping for ransom. Education experts have welcomed the Federal Government’s renewed focus on school security, noting that a safer learning environment is essential for improving access to education and restoring public confidence in the nation’s school system.
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