Dr. Ahmed Audi, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, has ordered the immediate deployment of undercover agents to schools and host communities to improve security in schools.
This directive was issued during the closing ceremony of a five-day capacity building program on Safe School Response in Kaduna on Friday.
The training was attended by more than 200 NSCDC personnel and stakeholders from seven states in the North West and was organized by the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre.
According to Audi, “We are enhancing high-speed internet access with our advanced chipsets. In the smartphone domain, we are committed to offering a wider range of premium and flagship devices while supporting the transition from feature phones to smartphones. ”
“In the realm of AI-IoT, we are exploring new possibilities and technologies. Thus, this will promote digital inclusion, revolutionize connectivity in Nigeria, and contribute to sustainable development goals.”
Audi explained that this initiative is part of the National Plan on Safe Schools, which is designed to mobilize synergy among security agencies and relevant stakeholders for the protection of schools and host communities.
The CG acknowledged the alarming increase in attacks and violence in schools in Nigeria, which has contributed to the rising number of out-of-school children.
“The strategic plan is based on the whole-of-society approach with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps as the lead agency,” Audi added.
He emphasized the enormous task ahead of the center, requiring effective synergy and collaboration among all stakeholders, including the Federal, State, and Local Governments. Audi requested the allocation of existing structures in each state capital in the North-West to serve as safe school coordination centers.
Audi also addressed the participants, saying, “Be reminded that aside from being ambassadors of the center, you are equally the foot soldiers who are in direct contact with the members of schools and host communities.”
He urged them to put the knowledge gained during the training into practice to effectively discharge their duties.
Maj.-Gen. Valentine Okoro, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army, highlighted the significance of the national plan for safe schools, a government program designed to mobilize collaboration among security agencies.
The GOC, represented by Brig.-Gen. Henry Yanet, Commander 51 Signals, stated that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, had already directed army units and formations to collaborate with other security agencies in protecting the civilian population.
