By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has initiated a two-day training workshop targeting Safe Schools Instructors and Facilitators. The main objective of this workshop is to ensure that members of the Special Safe Schools Response Squad (SSSRS) across the nation adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Under the theme “Building Capacities for Safe Schools Instructors,” Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to safeguarding schools in the country.
Dr. Audi reiterated that the primary responsibility of the Special Safe Schools Response Squad (SSSRS) is to carry out regular patrols and respond to emergencies, collaborating with relevant agencies as directed by the Commander of the Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre.
Represented by his second-in-command, Deputy Commandant General (DCG) Nnamdi Nwinyi, who oversees Crisis and Disaster Management, the NSCDC leader urged the 92 participants to cascade the knowledge acquired during the workshop down the ranks. This is essential for the success of the National Safe Schools Project.
“Following this workshop, your responsibility is to ensure thorough and consistent training for SSSRS members. This will ensure their professional conduct in accordance with the Centre’s SOP and relevant laws,” stated Dr. Audi.
He further revealed that he had directed the Commander of the Centre to decentralize some training programs, scheduling the Safe Schools Coordinators Course for senior officers in different zones across the country. The decentralization aims to bring training closer to schools and communities, fostering local involvement in the protection of educational institutions.
Dr. Tersoo Shaapera, the Commander of the NSSRCC, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that led to the establishment of the center. He highlighted the NSCDC’s proactive role, starting from a vulnerability survey that laid the foundation for Nigeria’s Safe Schools Program.
This training represents the next step in the program’s implementation, focusing on equipping the Special Safe Schools Rapid Response Squad with the knowledge and skills required for operations within the guidelines of the Safe Schools Declaration. The participants hail from all states of the Federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, and feature resource persons from various security sectors, academia, ministries, and civil society organizations.
