Insecurity: Benue Gov vows to address issues around schools
By Bridget Ikyado
The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia has announced the commitment of his administration to addressing the critical issues of insecurity in and around schools in Benue State.
The Governor made the announcement Thursday, September 14, 2023 at IBB Square, Makurdi while making a remark at the Closing Ceremony of the Capacity Development Program for Safe school Response Team in Nigeria.
The event which was put together by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has brought together some security officials from the seven North Central States of Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, and Benue, as well as the neighbouring Taraba and the FCT.
Governor Alia commended the efforts of the team towards promoting safety in societies and having Safe schools in the country for all students and educators especially in conflict prone areas and fragile communities.
He said his collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education in this regard signifies the government’s recognition of the paramount importance of protecting the Benue educational institutions and ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.
Governor Alia, on behalf of the Government of Benue State, donated a facility Behind Benue State Education Resource Center for the establishment of Benue State Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre
In his remark, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume, ably represented by Alhaji Shehu Shinkafi, Permanent Secretary, Office of the President appreciated the efforts of NSCDC for their efforts in addressing issues of insecurity in Nigerian schools, and assured them of the commitment of Federal Government to guarantee safer learning environment for all students.
Earlier, the Commander, National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre, Dr. Tersoo Shaapera, and Dr. Leo Ebenezer, Head of Education at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Governors’Forum, Representing the Director General NGF, amongst other top dignitaries at the event underscored the need to provide security to schools and host communities to guarantee seamless learning process in Nigeria.
From the angle of traditional rulers, Ter Makurdi, HRH, Chief Vincent Aule thanked the Safe school Response Team and promised on behalf of Makurdi Traditional Council to collaborate with them in ensuring the well-being and future of Benue children.
