Ogun Launches Multi-Agency Security Initiative to Protect Schools
The Ogun State Government has unveiled a comprehensive multi-agency security initiative aimed at strengthening the safety of schools and protecting students from emerging security threats across the State.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this on Wednesday May 27 at his residence in Iperu while hosting the League of Imams and Alfas as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The Governor said the proactive security arrangement became necessary following recent security concerns recorded in neighbouring States, stressing that his administration would not wait for any unfortunate incident before taking action to safeguard lives and educational institutions in Ogun State.
According to him, the Government will deploy a combination of conventional Security Agencies and Local Security outfits, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters and vigilante groups, to provide round-the-clock protection for schools across the State.
“We have decided to engage the services of our Security Agencies, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters and other vigilante groups, to provide security in our schools. We need to do this to protect the lives of our future generation,” Abiodun stated.
The Governor further explained that the security architecture would involve close collaboration among traditional rulers, religious leaders and law enforcement agencies to ensure effective coordination, intelligence gathering and surveillance around schools.
He noted that the Government would also provide stipends and support mechanisms for security personnel and local operatives participating in the initiative to ensure its immediate and effective implementation.
“We will mobilise the Amotekun Corps, the So-Safe Corps and all vigilante groups for the protection of schools across the length and breadth of the state. We will also provide stipends to encourage and support this initiative, and implementation will commence immediately,” he added.
Governor Abiodun stressed that the move was designed to prevent incidents similar to those witnessed in some neighbouring states, maintaining that the safety and future of schoolchildren remain a top priority of his administration.
While appreciating religious leaders for their prayers and contributions to peace and stability in the state, the Governor emphasised that practical security measures must complement spiritual support to guarantee the protection of students and learning environments.
“We must ensure that we put this kind of structure in place to guarantee the protection of our future generation currently being nurtured in various schools,” he said.
In addition to the security initiative, the Governor announced the inauguration of a “Direct Impact Committee” that will tour communities across Ogun State to identify pressing developmental needs and facilitate quick interventions.
He explained that the committee would coordinate the provision of transformers, boreholes, solar streetlights and other essential amenities based on the specific needs of different communities.
Abiodun also revealed plans to provide monthly financial support to 10 individuals in each of the 5,043 polling units across the 236 wards in the State as part of efforts to cushion economic hardship at the grassroots.
He assured traditional rulers and religious leaders that they would play active roles in selecting beneficiaries for the programme, describing them as critical stakeholders closest to the people.
The Governor commended religious leaders for their continued prayers and support, noting that peace and stability remain vital ingredients for sustainable development and socio-economic growth in Ogun State.
