Insecurity: Education Minister seeks third line security for Nigeria’s public safety

●As Peace Corps holds 26th Founders’ Day

Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has canvassed a third line security to join the ongoing efforts of the military and other security agencies in order to end the mounting security challenges in the county.

The minister who stated this in Abuja at the 26th Founders’ Day of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, pointed out that the imperatives for a Third Line Security for Public Safety could not be more timely and relevant than now in an era where security threats were increasingly multifaceted and pervasive.

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According to him, “we cannot claim to be unaware of the security challenges in our country within the last ten years which has led to loss of lives, closure of schools, kidnapping and abduction of students and teachers, maiming of citizens, killing of security personnel, etc.

“This challenge, in spite of the huge amount of money budgeted to combat and reduce it, has remains unabated.

“It is therefore imperative that we explore innovative and collaborative approaches to ensure the safety and security of our nation.

“Therefore, the role of private security outfits such as the Peace Corps in complementing the efforts of public security agencies cannot be overemphasized.

“As we confront the complexities of contemporary security challenges, the concept of a “third line” security becomes crucial.

“This third line should not be seen as merely an auxiliary force but a strategic partner in our collective endeavor to safeguard public safety.”

He however said that the Federal Ministry of Education in the past few years had maintained a relatively low challenges of security breaches in schools since the commencement of Safe School Initiative which was initiated in 2016.

According to him, the feat was achieved with the cooperation of foreign partners, school owners and administrators.

He said that the Federal Ministry of Education was looking forward to having Peace Corps of Nigeria as part of the success story.

“As we celebrate your accomplishments over the past 26 years, we also look forward to the future with optimism and resolve.

“Your commitment to excellence, innovation, and partnership sets a standard for others in the industry to follow.

“Together, we can build a safer and more secure Nigeria where every child can go to school, learn, play and achieve without fear of molestation and every citizen can live, work, and thrive without fear”, he said.

The minister commended the National Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria, Ambassador Dr Dickson Ameh Akoh, for the journey of the Corps so far especially for his resilience in the face of daunting challenges.

According to him, “I equally celebrate your unwavering desire to ensure the security of lives and property of citizens of this nation through your selfless service to our dear fatherland, especially the vulnerable among us. We look forward to more collaboration with the Ministry in the nearest future.”

Speaking earlier, the National Commandant of the Corps, Ambassador Dr Dickson Ameh had commented the commitment of the officers and men if the Corps for their commitment and dedication in contributing for its growth despite all odds.

He urged the both chambers of the National Assembly to expedite Action on the passage of the Bill that would give the Corps legal backing to enable the President to ascent to it for the overall interest of the nation”s youths.