The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has conducted tactical training sessions for 250 security personnel, including police officers in Jigawa, to enhance school safety across the state.
Mr Abayomi Shogunle, National Coordinator of the School Protection Squad (SPS), Force Headquarters, disclosed this to newsmen at the ongoing Stakeholders’ Forum on the Security of Schools and Training of Special Protection Squad in Dutse on Friday.
Shogunle said that the training was designed for selected officers, including personnel from the police, DSS, military, NIS, vigilante groups, and other volunteers.
He added that the training covered critical security skills, including response to school attacks, hostage rescue, and negotiation techniques.
“Today, we are training members of police school protection squad and other critical stakeholders, other sister security agencies, vigilante members and members of the community watch.
“This is based on the directive of the InspectorGeneralofPolice, to do inclusive policing.
“So, we are not leaving security of schools to police officers only, but also bringing in community leaders, vigilante and other volunteers.
“At the moment, in every state command, we have 64 police officers that are members of the school protection squad.
“Then we have number of officers from sister security agencies as members of squad also,” the coordinator said.
He said that competent resource persons were engaged to train the participants on using cutting edge technology for protection of schools.
According to him, by the end of the training, officers will have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively protect schools and other educational institutions.
He urged participants to apply what they had learned in their respective communities to strengthen school security.
Shogunle also called on residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or individuals while keeping a close watch on schools in their communities.
“Parents should also ask their children about their schools when they come home. If you see something, say something,” he added.
Some participants described the training as timely, noting that several schools had faced attacks from terrorists and bandits.
They emphasised that the initiative would significantly enhance the safety of schools, teachers, and students across the state.