Ondo Assembly Assures Support for Safe School Programme
The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, has pledged the Assembly’s support for initiatives aimed at improving security in schools across the state in order to create a safe and conducive environment for teaching and learning.
Oladiji made this known while receiving officials of the Safe School Response Coordination Centre during a visit to the Assembly complex in Akure.
He described security as a critical concern for Nigerians, noting that programmes such as the Safe School initiative would help curb cases of kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities that threaten schools and communities.
The Speaker emphasized that the Assembly remains committed to the safety and welfare of the people of the state, adding that safeguarding lives and property is a fundamental duty of government and lawmakers.
He also encouraged the officials of the centre to maintain close communication with the Assembly and keep it informed about the activities and programmes being carried out in the state.
Earlier, the Coordinator of the Safe School Response Coordination Centre and Deputy Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Olakanse Folasade, explained that the Safe School Unit was established by the Federal Government following the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in 2014 to strengthen security in schools nationwide.
She noted that the unit coordinates security agencies to protect schools, conducts risk assessments of educational institutions, and submits reports on schools that require urgent security attention. She added that the unit also recommends infrastructural improvements such as perimeter fencing, access control systems and other safety measures.
Folasade further stated that legislators are important stakeholders in the success of the initiative, explaining that the visit to the Assembly was to seek collaboration and legislative support for the effective implementation of the Safe School Programme in the state.
In his vote of thanks, the Clerk of the House, Mr Benjamin Jayeola, appreciated the Speaker and members of the Assembly for receiving the delegation despite their busy schedules. He urged the officials to take advantage of the Assembly’s readiness to support the initiative, noting that the House remains committed to partnering with relevant agencies to promote safety and security in the state.
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