(DDM) – The Nigerian Senate has inaugurated a special committee to investigate the implementation of the Safe School Initiative, following renewed public concern over persistent attacks on schools across the country.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the decision comes after lawmakers expressed frustration over the alarming rise in student abductions, bandit raids, and security breaches in educational institutions.
The Safe School Initiative, launched in 2014 after the Chibok girls’ abduction, was designed to fortify school environments, improve emergency response systems, and protect students—particularly in high-risk regions.
However, senators argue that despite billions budgeted and multiple interventions announced over the years, students continue to face severe threats from terrorists, bandits, and other armed groups.
The newly established panel is expected to scrutinize funding records, project execution, federal–state collaboration, and the activities of agencies mandated to secure schools.
Lawmakers noted that several schools remain without perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, trained security personnel, or reinforced infrastructure—key components the Initiative promised to deliver.
The Senate expressed concern that many rural schools, especially in the North-West and North-East, have been forced to shut down due to repeated attacks.
These attacks, often involving mass abductions, have disrupted academic calendars and inflicted long-term trauma on students, teachers, and communities.
Investigators will also examine allegations of mismanagement, abandoned projects, and lack of accountability among implementing agencies.
Senators insisted that accurate reporting and transparency are necessary to understand why the programme has not achieved expected results.
Human rights groups and education advocates have repeatedly warned that failing to secure schools undermines national development, widens education inequality, and deepens fear among parents and pupils.
Experts say that continued inaction could push more children out of classrooms, increase child labour, and worsen the literacy gap across conflict-prone areas.
The panel is expected to summon key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, security agencies, state governments, and civil society organisations involved in school safety advocacy.
In addition to reviewing past efforts, the committee will recommend stronger strategies to prevent future attacks and ensure effective monitoring of school-protection funds.
Senators emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford further lapses, stressing that every child deserves a safe learning environment regardless of location.
They added that properly securing schools is essential for achieving national development goals and restoring public confidence in the education system.
For now, the Senate maintains that this probe marks a decisive step toward re-evaluating and strengthening the Safe School Initiative, ensuring that the programme finally delivers on its promise to protect Nigeria’s learners and teachers.