NSCDC Launches Safe Schools Response Squad in Bauchi

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has launched Safe Schools Response Squad in Bauchi State as part of its efforts to provide safe and secured environment for teaching and learning in Nigerian schools.

THISDAY reported that the squad would work in close partnership with other security agencies to tame the spate of attacks on schools, students and teachers and ensure a robust secured learning environment.

Speaking during the launching of the squad on Wednesday, the NSCDC Bauchi State Commandant, Mr. Ilelaboye Oyejide, said that the squad would provide security to universities, polytechnics, colleges and boarding schools in the state.

Oyejide said that the Safe Schools Declaration, which Federal Government ratified in 2018, mandated the NSCDC to coordinate the implementation of the scheme along with other state security agencies.

He said that the safe schools initiative would reduced armed conflict on education where incidences of bombing, kidnapping and killings of both students and teachers occurred.

He expressed confidence that smooth implementation of the initiative would reduce the burden of out of school children which Bauchi State Government is currently grappling with through various policies and programmes.

Oyejide said other safety and security issues confronting students on various campuses such as sexual assault, child abuse and theft would also be tackled.

To effectively implement the initiative, the commandant said that emergency hotlines have been put in place to receive complaints and distress calls for prompt action to ensure safety of students and government structures across the 20 local governments of the state.