Peace Corps Advocates Joint Security Efforts to Protect Schools Nationwide

The Peace Corps of Nigeria has raised renewed alarm over the escalating wave of insecurity targeting educational institutions across the country, calling for immediate federal intervention, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and swift passage of the Peace Corps Establishment Bill to strengthen national security efforts.

Eko Hot News reports that the National Commandant of the Corps, Ambassador Dickson Akoh, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja, where he condemned the continued invasion of schools by armed bandits who abduct pupils and teachers for ransom. He described the trend as a disturbing threat to Nigeria’s education system and national stability.

Akoh expressed concern that repeated attacks on schools are disrupting academic activities and creating fear among students, parents, and teachers. He warned that the psychological impact of these incidents is discouraging many parents from sending their children to school, with long-term risks for national development.

He noted that the persistent targeting of learning environments reflects a widening security gap that requires urgent and coordinated intervention. According to him, safeguarding schools must be treated as a national priority because education remains central to societal progress.

The Peace Corps boss called for stronger collaboration between the Peace Corps of Nigeria and existing security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, NSCDC, and others. He said such cooperation would improve intelligence sharing, surveillance, and rapid response to threats.

He explained that the Corps is strategically positioned to support grassroots security operations, especially in school environments where early detection of suspicious activities can prevent attacks. He added that trained personnel could assist in monitoring and reporting security breaches.

Akoh further stressed the need to deploy disciplined safety officers to schools nationwide to tackle challenges such as cultism, drug abuse, and unauthorised access. He said this would strengthen protection within learning institutions.

He also highlighted the importance of real-time intelligence sharing between agencies to ensure a quick response to security threats before they escalate. According to him, effective coordination is key to preventing avoidable attacks.

The Commandant renewed his call on the Federal Government to sign the Peace Corps Establishment Bill, stating that legal backing would enhance the Corps’ operational capacity and strengthen its contribution to national security.

He maintained that formal recognition would enable the Peace Corps to support security agencies more effectively, especially in safeguarding schools and vulnerable communities.

Akoh urged the government to prioritise the security of educational institutions, stressing that protecting schools means protecting the future of Nigeria’s youth and national development.

The Peace Corps reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to promote peace, safety, and stability across schools nationwide.