Reps propose the establishment of a dedicated fund for safe school initiative

The House of Representatives has proposed that a dedicated fund be established to guarantee that the Safe School initiative is implemented effectively.

Tajudeen Abbas made the recommendation on Tuesday during the resumption of plenary in Abuja.

He stated that the house is acutely aware of the heinous crimes that have specifically “targeted our schools, where innocent children, especially girls, are abducted.”

According to him, schools, which should be sanctuaries of learning and safety, have become targets for terrorists and kidnappers.

Mr Abbas said, “These acts are not only heinous but are direct attacks on the future of Nigeria, which will rob children of their right to education and secure childhood. The implications of these assaults stretch far beyond the immediate pain and disruption they cause.

“They sow fear in communities, discourage school attendance, and potentially stifle the education of a generation. We must not allow the ambitions of our children to be thwarted by fear; the house stands united with our armed forces and will advocate for comprehensive strategies to safeguard our schools.”

The speaker added, “This involves not only physical security measures such as fencing, security personnel, and surveillance technologies but also community-based strategies that involve local leaders in our security framework.

“On our part, we will continue to ensure that our security agencies have the necessary tools and legislation to act effectively. To this end, we recommend the establishment of a dedicated fund specifically for school safety.”

The speaker explained that the fund will support the implementation of advanced security measures and training security personnel and communities on strategies for protecting educational environments.

Mr Abbas said, due to financial requirements, the model could be piloted in a few schools, especially those most vulnerable to attacks.