FG: Protecting schools, facilities a collective responsibility 

Yusuf Sununu, minister of state for education, says the commitment to protect education from further attacks is a collective responsibility.

Sununu said this while speaking at an event in Abuja to commemorate the International Day to Protect Education from Attacks.

The 2023 theme of the celebration is tagged: “Making Schools Safe Through the Implementation of the Safe School Policy.”

The minister said the theme is essential in order to sensitise relevant education stakeholders that there is guidance for implementation.

“The theme serves as a powerful reminder of the pressing need to use the National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools (NPSSVFS) and the National Minimum Standards for Safe Schools for its operationalization,” he said.

“This is to ensure consistent safety standards across educational institutions for the implementation process.

“The adherence to the policy guidance during implementation will ensure emergency preparedness in case of imminent attacks on learners, educators, and educational institutions nationwide and reduce casualties.

“The attacks on education have far-reaching consequences globally on learners’ school attendance, teachers’ stability, the quality of education, economic development and social progress.

“It creates an environment of fear, resulting in increased school dropout rates, diminished enrollment, and compromised educational quality.

“We are all aware that the security of students, teachers, and educational infrastructure is paramount for sustainable development in all climes.”

Sununu said the federal government had put in place initiatives for safe learning environments and protection of learners.

The minister listed the initiatives to include: the endorsement of the Safe Schools Declaration (SSD) and the launching of the Safe Schools Initiative (SSI).

“Within Nigeria, we cannot ignore the grave challenges posed to education in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states due to insurgency,” the minister said. 

“The heartbreaking attack on FGC, Buni-Yadi, Yobe State, the tragic massacre of 29 students on February 24, 2014, abductions of 276 Chibok girls in April 2014 and the kidnapping of 110 girls from 655, Dapchi in 2018 stand out as poignant examples of the ongoing crisis.

“It is imperative to note that attacks on education have far-reaching implications apart from disrupting the lives of students. It also affects the future development of our nation detrimentally.”