Former Nigerian Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai has called on the federal government to establish a School Safety Task Force to protect students and ensure the continued development of education in the country.
Speaking at the 2025 International Hybrid Conference organized by the Faculty of Education at Federal University Gusau, Zamfara State, Buratai—represented by retired Brig. Gen. MK Galadanchi—emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated security strategy.
He proposed that the task force include military personnel, police officers, and community leaders to implement security measures in high-risk areas.
“By establishing a school safety task force, we can develop targeted security solutions for vulnerable schools,” he said.
Buratai also stressed the importance of surveillance technology, including drones, to monitor at-risk school zones and prevent attacks.
“Education is a fundamental human right and a critical driver of national development. If we fail to protect it, we jeopardize our nation’s future,” he warned.
He urged stakeholders to prioritize innovation, collaboration, and long-term commitment to ensure that every Nigerian child has access to safe, equitable, and high-quality education.
Citing a 2024 UNICEF demographic survey, Buratai highlighted that girls account for 60% of Nigeria’s 10 million out-of-school children, with insecurity being a major barrier to their education. He also called for greater support for children with disabilities, who face additional challenges in accessing education.
