Emmanuel A. Olujonwo has called for greater collaboration among government, schools, parents, and communities to strengthen the safety of learning environments across the country, stressing that safe schools are essential to quality education and national development.
Speaking on Business Briefing – Ask the Expert on the topic, “Prioritizing Safe Schools in Nigeria,” Olujonwo described a safe school as one where students can learn free from violence, fear, abuse, bullying, and other threats that undermine education. He noted that rising insecurity, cyberbullying, and other emerging risks have made school safety more important than ever.
According to him, rural schools are particularly vulnerable because of inadequate security infrastructure, poor road access, and limited emergency response systems. He added that many schools still contend with broken fences, insufficient security personnel, and poor facilities, exposing students and teachers to greater risks.
Olujonwo acknowledged the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative as a positive intervention but said its implementation has been constrained by funding challenges and varying levels of commitment across states. He called for stronger partnerships between government, security agencies, school administrators, parents, and host communities to improve early warning systems and respond effectively to security threats.
He also emphasized that school safety extends beyond physical protection, urging schools to create emotionally and psychologically safe environments where every child feels respected, supported, and able to learn without fear. He encouraged school administrators to regularly review safety policies, conduct emergency drills, and equip staff with the skills needed to respond to security incidents.
Olujonwo further described school safety as a shared responsibility, urging parents and local communities to actively support schools in safeguarding children and promoting a secure learning environment.
