NANS Hails Police for Launch of 24/7 School Emergency Response Centres

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has praised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for its decisive move to establish round-the-clock emergency response centres across the country, aimed at swiftly addressing school-related security incidents.

In a statement, NANS described the initiative—led by the National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS), CP Abayomi Shogunle—as a major step in protecting students, teachers, and educational infrastructure nationwide.

“This landmark effort, led by the National Coordinator of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS), CP Abayomi Shogunle, demonstrates the NPF’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of students, teachers, and educational infrastructure, aligning with the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative and the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The announcement was made during a stakeholders’ forum held in Ibadan, Oyo State. NANS said the move reflects the police force’s dedication to creating secure and stable learning environments for Nigerian students.

“The establishment of these emergency centres, coupled with the deployment of the Schools Protection Squad, marks a significant step toward addressing security challenges such as kidnappings and violence targeting schools, which have disrupted education and instilled fear in communities.”

NANS also commended the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, for what it called visionary leadership and a strong commitment to making schools safe havens for learning.

“NANS applauds the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to ensuring that schools remain sanctuaries of learning and growth.”

The association’s president, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, welcomed the collaborative strategy adopted by the NPF, which brings together security agencies, educational authorities, and local stakeholders.

“The NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, recognises the collaborative approach adopted by the NPF, which involves partnerships with other security agencies, educational institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders.”

According to him, the integration of modern technologies such as surveillance drones and CCTV systems reflects the forward-thinking vision of the project.

“This synergy, as emphasised during the stakeholders’ forum, is crucial for fostering a proactive rather than reactive approach to school safety.”

He urged Nigerian students to embrace the initiative, stay alert, and actively engage in crime-prevention campaigns.

“The 24/7 emergency response centres, accessible via the dedicated line 08077357777, provide a vital resource for reporting emergencies and ensuring swift responses to threats.”

The NANS president called on students to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and support sensitisation programmes organised by the police.

“NANS encourages students to collaborate with security agencies, school authorities, and community leaders to strengthen the security framework around educational institutions.”

He also stressed that embracing the initiative would help reduce the number of out-of-school children and support human capital development.

“By embracing this initiative, students can contribute to creating safer learning environments and reducing the incidence of out-of-school children, thereby advancing Nigeria’s human capital development.”

NANS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that promote students’ safety and their right to uninterrupted education.

“NANS remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the welfare and security of students nationwide and will continue to advocate for policies that uphold the right to safe and uninterrupted education.”