The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has committed to bolstering security measures in schools throughout Kogi State to prevent further incidents of student abductions. This pledge was made by Dr. Hammed Abodunrin, the Commander of the National Safe School Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC), NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja, during his visit to the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara.
Dr. Abodunrin expressed his concern about the recent abduction of CUSTECH students by suspected bandits, highlighting the urgent need to enhance security around educational institutions to ensure the safety of students. His visit aimed to show solidarity with the university’s management and community and to assess the situation firsthand following briefings from the Kogi NSCDC Commandant.
The Commander emphasized the federal government’s dedication to the safety and security of students, mentioning that the Safe School Initiative, a global project tailored to address unique challenges in Nigeria, is taken very seriously. Dr. Abodunrin noted that the NSSRCC not only responds to such incidents but also actively works on building the personal security capacities of stakeholders, including the management, staff, and students of CUSTECH, particularly those in their final year.
Highlighting the proactive measures needed, Dr. Abodunrin called for increased vigilance and personal security awareness among all members of the university community. He stressed the importance of community engagement in improving security and urged everyone to be security conscious, report suspicious activities promptly, and work collaboratively with security agencies.
The visit also served as an assurance that with the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in the Safe School Initiative, comprehensive capacity building for security within educational institutions can be achieved. The Commander also appreciated the swift actions of Governor Ahmed Ododo and the combined efforts of security agencies, including the Army, DSS, police, NSCDC, hunters, and vigilance groups, which led to the rescue of 14 students.
The Vice-Chancellor of CUSTECH, Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita, responded positively to the visit, thanking the security agencies for their efforts and emphasizing the university’s commitment to enhancing its intelligence gathering capabilities to prevent future incidents. Meanwhile, Paul Igwebuike, the NSCDC Commandant for Kogi State, highlighted the effective response and ongoing cooperation with the school management and other security bodies to ensure the continued safety of lives and property within the state.
