The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has called on schools across Nigeria to strengthen security measures following the recent abduction of pupils in Oyo and Borno states, stressing that no child should have to learn in fear.
In a security advisory released on Friday, the military described the latest school abductions as a wake-up call for authorities and communities to take proactive steps to protect students and educational institutions.
The DHQ outlined six key measures aimed at improving school safety and preventing future attacks.
According to the advisory, schools should improve both physical and digital security infrastructure by constructing perimeter fences and installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and other surveillance technologies capable of detecting potential threats.
The military noted that effective monitoring systems could help deter criminal activities and enhance rapid response capabilities.
The Defence Headquarters also encouraged schools to collaborate with trusted youths within host communities to support efforts aimed at safeguarding students and school facilities.
According to the military, involving local communities would strengthen vigilance and improve intelligence gathering.
The DHQ advised school administrators to establish comprehensive emergency response plans and conduct regular security drills to prepare staff and students for emergencies.
It also urged schools to create clear procedures for handling security incidents and other unforeseen situations.
The military further recommended regular security training for teachers, administrators and support staff to enable them recognise suspicious activities and respond appropriately to emerging threats.
According to the advisory, proper training can significantly improve preparedness and reduce vulnerability to attacks.
Parents, Communities and Security Agencies Must Work Together
The Defence Headquarters stressed the need for stronger collaboration among schools, parents, host communities, law enforcement agencies and security institutions.
It noted that effective partnerships would enhance early threat detection and facilitate quicker responses to security emergencies.
The military also urged students, parents and community members to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or unfamiliar persons to authorities.
When you see something, say something,” the advisory stated, adding that timely information could help security agencies prevent attacks before they occur.
The DHQ’s recommendations align with the Safe Schools Initiative launched by the Federal Government in 2014 following the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State.
The programme was designed to improve school security through risk assessments, better infrastructure, emergency preparedness, early warning systems and stronger collaboration with communities and security agencies.
Schools under the initiative are expected to conduct vulnerability assessments, establish safety plans and ensure continuity of learning in conflict-prone areas.
Despite the implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, mass abductions of students have continued across the country.
According to data compiled by PREMIUM TIMES, no fewer than 2,310 students have been kidnapped in 30 attacks on schools since 2014.
The analysis further revealed that the security crisis has worsened under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with 13 mass school abductions involving 674 students recorded within the last three years.
Security experts have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, community policing and improved protection of educational institutions to prevent further attacks and guarantee safe learning environments for children.
