Beatrice Gondyi Bauchi
The Bauchi State Police Command has inaugurated a multi-stakeholder Safe School Implementation Task Force aimed at strengthening security across educational institutions in the state amid growing concerns over kidnapping, banditry, and violent attacks.
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, is designed to improve coordination among security agencies, government institutions, and community stakeholders in safeguarding schools from emerging threats that have disrupted academic activities in parts of the country.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held in Bauchi, the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, warned that schools are increasingly becoming soft targets for criminal groups, including kidnappers and cult-related networks.
He noted that the trend has heightened fear among students, teachers, and parents, stressing the need for urgent and coordinated intervention.
“Across the country, schools are increasingly targeted by bandits, kidnappers, cult groups, and drug networks,” he said.
The task force was inaugurated on behalf of the state government by the Chief Security Adviser and Supervising Commissioner for Internal Security, retired DIG Muhammad Sani, under the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed.
According to the police commissioner, the formation of the task force follows directives from the Inspector General of Police Nigeria, mandating all state commands to adopt proactive policing strategies, enhance intelligence-led operations, and deepen inter-agency collaboration for improved school security.
He emphasized that securing schools requires collective responsibility beyond police operations alone, calling for stronger intelligence sharing, preventive measures, and rapid emergency response systems.
“We must work collectively to identify vulnerable schools, strengthen preventive measures, improve intelligence sharing, and establish effective emergency response mechanisms,” he stated, urging members of the task force to approach the assignment with seriousness and patriotism.
CP Aliyu also assured that the police command would deploy all lawful resources to protect lives and property within and around educational institutions across the state.
He further encouraged school authorities and members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities, noting that timely information remains critical in preventing attacks.
The initiative aligns with the national Safe School Programme, which focuses on safeguarding learning environments and reducing vulnerability to attacks.
Stakeholders present at the event included representatives of the Emir of Katagum, sister security agencies, senior government officials, traditional and religious leaders, education administrators, civil society organisations, and members of the press.
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