By Nkechi Eze
The National Coordinator of the Safe Schools Initiative, Hajiya Halima Iliya, has sought stronger collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria to enhance the protection of schools and children across the country.
Iliya made the call on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, at Defence Headquarters, Abuja, where she discussed the Initiative’s activities, interventions and future plans.
According to an official statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director, Defence Information, the visit was aimed at strengthening synergy between the Safe Schools Initiative and the Armed Forces in securing learning environments nationwide.
Iliya explained that the Safe Schools Initiative was established in 2014 following major attacks on schools, particularly the abduction of 276 schoolchildren in Chibok, which drew national and international attention to the vulnerability of educational institutions.
She said the Initiative, domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Finance, coordinates the efforts of security agencies, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners and civil society organisations towards improving the safety and security of schools.
The National Coordinator said the visit was also intended to formally brief the CDS on the Initiative’s programmes and explore areas for deeper collaboration with the Armed Forces.
Iliya also commiserated with the CDS and the Armed Forces over the recent air mishap that resulted in the death of Nigerian Air Force personnel and other Nigerians, describing the incident as painful.
She expressed appreciation for the sacrifices of military personnel in the service of the nation.
Responding, Oluyede thanked the National Coordinator for the visit and commended the Safe Schools Initiative for its sustained commitment to protecting education.
The CDS assured her of the full cooperation and support of the Armed Forces, stressing that the protection of schools and children remained a critical national security priority and a shared responsibility.
Oluyede reaffirmed that Defence Headquarters would continue to work with the Safe Schools Initiative and other stakeholders to ensure that schools across the country remained safe, secure and conducive for learning.
