Ogun Unveils Multi-Agency Security Initiative for Schools

Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced a new multi-agency security initiative aimed at strengthening protection for schools across Ogun State in response to emerging security threats in neighbouring states.

The governor disclosed this on Wednesday at his residence in Iperu while hosting the League of Imams and Alfas as part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

Abiodun said the move became necessary to proactively safeguard students and educational institutions, stressing that the safety of children remained a top priority for his administration.

According to him, the state government would deploy formal security agencies and local security outfits, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters and vigilante groups, to provide adequate security across schools in 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,” the governor said.

He explained that the security framework would also involve collaboration among traditional rulers, religious leaders and law enforcement agencies to ensure effective coordination and surveillance around schools.

Abiodun added that the government would provide stipends to support the initiative and encourage participating security outfits, noting that implementation would commence immediately.

“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,” he stated.

The governor said the initiative was designed to prevent a recurrence of security incidents witnessed in some neighbouring states, adding that practical measures were necessary to complement prayers and sustain peace.

“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 added.

Abiodun also announced the inauguration of a “Direct Impact Committee” to tour communities across the state and identify pressing needs requiring government intervention.

He said the committee would facilitate the provision of transformers, boreholes, solar streetlights and other amenities tailored to the needs of different communities.

The governor further revealed plans to provide monthly financial support to 10 persons 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 of active involvement in selecting beneficiaries, describing them as critical stakeholders closest to the people.

Abiodun commended religious leaders for their continued prayers and support, saying their contributions had helped sustain peace, stability and socio-economic development in Ogun State.