The Ogun State Government has launched a comprehensive security initiative aimed at strengthening the protection of schools and students across the state amid growing security concerns in parts of the country.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the measure while hosting members of the League of Imams and Alfas at his residence in Iperu during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. He explained that the decision was prompted by recent security challenges in neighbouring states and underscored his administration's commitment to ensuring the safety of schoolchildren.
According to the governor, the security framework will involve the deployment of a combination of conventional security agencies and local security outfits, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters, and vigilante groups, to provide adequate protection for educational institutions throughout the state.
Abiodun stated that traditional rulers, religious leaders, and law enforcement agencies would work closely together to ensure effective coordination, intelligence gathering, and surveillance around schools.
He disclosed that the government would provide stipends to support the security personnel and groups participating in the initiative, adding that implementation would commence immediately.
The governor noted that the programme was designed to prevent incidents similar to those recorded in some neighbouring states, stressing that the protection of students and educational facilities remains a top priority of his administration. While acknowledging the importance of prayers in sustaining peace and stability, he emphasized the need for practical security measures to guarantee the safety of learners.
In a related development, Governor Abiodun announced the inauguration of a Direct Impact Committee that will tour communities across the state to identify critical needs and facilitate the provision of infrastructure such as transformers, boreholes, solar streetlights, and other essential amenities.
He also revealed plans to provide monthly financial assistance to 10 residents in each of the state's 5,043 polling units spread across 236 wards as part of efforts to ease economic hardship at the grassroots. Traditional rulers and religious leaders, he said, would play active roles in identifying beneficiaries due to their close relationship with local communities.
The governor commended religious leaders for their continued prayers, support, and commitment to peaceful coexistence, noting that their contributions have helped foster the stable environment necessary for development.
He urged them to sustain their support for the government and security agencies in order to preserve the peace and progress being enjoyed across Ogun State.