By ZAKAA LAZARUS,
The National Coordinator of the Safe Schools Initiative, Hajiya Halima Iliya, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
The visit was aimed at strengthening synergy between the Safe Schools Initiative and the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the collective effort to secure learning environments across the country, according to a statement by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information.
Speaking during the visit, Iliya explained that the Safe Schools Initiative was established in 2014 following major attacks on schools across the country, particularly the abduction of 276 school children at Chibok, which drew national and international attention to the vulnerability of schools.
She noted that the Initiative is domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Finance which is saddled with the responsibility of coordinating several actors including security agencies, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners and civil society organizations towards ensuring the safety and security of schools.
According to her, the purpose of the visit was to formally interact with the CDS and carry him along on the activities, interventions and future plans of the Initiative, as well as explore areas of deeper collaboration with the Armed Forces.
The National Coordinator also commiserated with the Chief of Defence Staff and the entire Armed Forces over the recent air mishap which led to the loss of Nigerian Air Force personnel and other distinguished Nigerians, describing the incident as painful.
She reiterated that the services and sacrifices of the military are deeply appreciated by all Nigerians.
In his response, General Oluyede expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the leadership of the Safe Schools Initiative for its sustained commitment to protecting education.
The CDS assured the Coordinator of the full cooperation and support of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, noting that the protection of schools and children remains a critical national security priority and a shared responsibility.
He reiterated that the DHQ will continue to work with the drivers of the initiative and other stakeholders to ensure that schools remain safe, secure and conducive for learning.
