By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
A Capacity Development Program for Safe School Response Team in Nigeria has ended in Makurdi with the Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia saying his administration is committed to addressing critical issues of insecurity in and around schools in the state.
Governor Alia made this known Thursday, in a speech at the closing ceremony of the Capacity Development Program for Safe School Response Team in Nigeria at the IBB Square, Makurdi.
Governor Alia applauded the Team’s activities in promoting safety in societies and ensuring safe schools in the country for all students and educators especially in conflict-prone areas and fragile communities.
Gov. Alia said, “My collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education in this regard signifies the government’s recognition of the paramount importance of protecting the Benue educational institutions and ensuring a conducive learning environment for students”.
In his remark, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, office of the President, Alhaji Shehu Shinkafi, appreciated the NSCDC for their efforts in addressing issues of insecurity in Nigerian schools and assured them of the commitment of the Federal Government to guarantee safer learning environment for all students.
The Commander, of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre, Dr. Tersoo Shaapera, and Head of Education at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Dr. Leo Ebenezer who represented the Director General, of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum at the event stressed the need to provide security to schools and host communities as a means of guaranteeing seamless learning process in schools.
Ter Makurdi, HRH, Chief Vincent Aule, thanked the Safe School Response Team and promised on behalf of Makurdi Traditional Council, to collaborate with them in ensuring the well-being and future of Benue children.
The event which was organized by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was attended by security personnel from different states including Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, Taraba, and Benue, as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Gov. Alia on behalf of the Government of Benue State, donated a facility behind Benue State Education Resource Center for the establishment of the Benue State Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre.
