Ibadan, Nigeria — The Oyo State Government has reassured teachers, pupils and parents of enhanced security in schools following the abduction of pupils and staff in Oriire Local Government Area, urging an immediate return to academic activities.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Chief Segun Olayiwola, gave the assurance on Monday during a meeting of the School Safety Initiatives Steering Committee in Ibadan.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives of UNESCO, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Police Force, private school proprietors and parents.
Olayiwola said the government remains committed to providing a safe learning environment, stressing that education is a top priority under Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
“Every child has the right to learn in an environment free from fear, violence and insecurity. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that schools remain places of safety, hope and opportunity,” he said.
Describing the Oriire abduction as unfortunate, the commissioner disclosed that the government is working closely with security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
“On behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde, I assure all citizens that the government is working tirelessly with security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure the safe release of those affected. Every available security and intelligence resource is being deployed,” he stated.
He noted that the state has continued to implement proactive measures aligned with the National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools, adding that the School Safety Initiatives Steering Committee, inaugurated in 2023, is coordinating efforts to protect schools across the state.
Olayiwola also highlighted ongoing capacity-building programmes supported by development partners, particularly UNICEF, which have equipped teachers with skills in emergency preparedness, risk assessment, safeguarding procedures and violence prevention.
He commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps and NSCDC, for their role in safeguarding schools.
Appealing to teachers to resume classes, the commissioner warned that prolonged school closures could negatively impact learning outcomes.
“We fully understand the concerns arising from the recent security incident… However, every day spent outside the classroom represents a lost opportunity for learning and development,” he said.
He assured stakeholders that additional security measures are being introduced to strengthen school safety, improve emergency response systems and deepen collaboration among schools, communities and security agencies.
Also speaking, a representative of the NSCDC pledged the agency’s support, noting that the corps is prepared to train teachers in self-defence and basic safety measures to enhance their ability to respond to threats.
Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment across Oyo State.
