The Ekiti State Ministry of Education, through the World Bank-supported Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), has charged school principals to adopt proactive measures in addressing security challenges within their institutions. This call was made by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Bimpe Aderiye, MNI, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Michael Omolayo, at an interactive session held today at Olaoluwa Muslim Grammar School, Ado-Ekiti.
Addressing the gathering, Omolayo reminded the principals that they are the key officers responsible for the administration and safety of their schools. “The totality of a school’s success and safety revolves around the principal. As the accounting officers, you must take ownership of ensuring a secure and conducive learning environment,” he emphasized.
The session, which brought together principals, education stakeholders, and representatives of key security agencies—including the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, Amotekun Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS)—focused on developing and implementing a comprehensive Security Management Plan (SMP) for schools across the state.
In her remarks, AGILE Project Coordinator, Mrs. Yewande Adesua, highlighted the critical need for enhanced safety protocols to protect students and school facilities. She announced that School Safety and Security Committees (SSSC) and School Safety and Security Response Teams (SSSRT) would be established in all public schools by November 6. Adesua further underscored AGILE’s ongoing investments in infrastructure development—such as school renovations, perimeter fencing, and classroom construction—as part of its broader efforts to promote safe learning spaces.
Security experts at the event called for a collaborative and community-driven approach to school security. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Edwin Igoche, representing the state’s Commissioner of Police, encouraged principals to introduce security clubs within their schools to engage students actively in safety practices. He also emphasized the importance of regular security drills and closer coordination with local communities to identify and manage potential threats.
Deputy Director DSS Mr.Benjamine Bilus in his presentation remarked that the security challenge requires concerted efforts by all and as such the DSS is ready to play it’s part calling on others to follow soothe.
Mr. Razak Malomo, Head of the Safe Schools Unit at the NSCDC Ekiti State Chapter, urged schools to register with the National Safe Schools Response Coordinating Center, which provides a platform for reporting security incidents promptly. He revealed that 595 schools across the state have already enrolled, demonstrating a growing commitment to secure learning environments.
The session concluded with participants—including Mr. Oke Akinbode, President of ANCOPSS Ekiti State, and Chief Atoba Ope Peters, Principal of Christ School—pledging to implement the resolutions discussed. All schools are expected to establish SSSCs and SSSRTs and form student-led security clubs by November, reinforcing the importance of student involvement in safety initiatives.
The collaboration between AGILE, the Ministry of Education, and security agencies signals the Ekiti State government’s determination to protect its education sector amid evolving security concerns. Through these initiatives, the state aims to build resilient schools where students and staff can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
