NSCDC plans deployment of undercover agents to schools

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi, has ordered the deployment of undercover agents to schools and host communities to enhance security in schools nationwide.

The CG gave the order on Friday in Kaduna at the closing ceremony of a five- day capacity building on Safe School Response.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that no fewer than 200 NSCDC personnel and other stakeholders from the seven states in the North-West attended the five-day programme.

The capacity building was organised by the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC).

Audi said that the Corps would partner the Ministry of Education in each state and Local Education Authorities for the successful implementation of the directive.

Audi who was represented by ACG Training and Capacity Building,  David Abi, said the NSSRCC was a critical component of the implementation strategy of the National Plan on Safe Schools.

He said that the plan was developed by government to mobilize synergy among security agencies and relevant stakeholders towards schools’ protection.

The CG acknowledged the rising cases of attacks and violence on schools in Nigeria and its attendant negative impacts, including increasing the rate of out of school children in the country.

“The strategic plan is based on the whole-of-society approach with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps as the lead agency.

“The Corps is also hosting the headquarters of the Centre, saddled with the responsibility of coordinating safety and security response for schools and host communities in collaboration with all security agencies and other relevant stakeholders.”

The GOC, represented by Brig.-Gen. Henry Yanet, Commander 51 Signals, said the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, had directed enjoined army units and formation to work with other security agencies in protecting the civil populace.

The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, reiterated the state government’s commitment to partnering all security agencies to enhance public safety.

The governor was represented by the Administrator, Kaduna Capital Territory Authority, Mr Samuel Aruwan.