Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has directed Vice Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts across the country to immediately dismiss any student found guilty of kidnapping or other related crimes after due investigation.
The minister also instructed heads of tertiary institutions to strengthen internal intelligence systems and enhance collaboration with the Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies as part of efforts to improve safety on campuses nationwide.
Dr. Alausa gave the directive during a meeting with the Pro-Chancellor, Governing Council and Management of the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, in Abuja.
While reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety of universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, the minister said recent isolated cases involving students outside school campuses highlight the need for improved intelligence gathering and closer cooperation with security agencies.
Reiterating President Bola Tinubu’s directive that no government institution should negotiate with or pay ransom to kidnappers, Dr. Alausa warned that giving in to criminal demands only encourages criminal activities and weakens ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity.
He also disclosed that he recently met with the Minister of Defence to develop a coordinated strategy for strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative across the country.
Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lafia, Lola Fibisola Akande, commended the minister for his continued support to the institution and pledged the university’s commitment to government efforts aimed at improving campus security.
Track up…also the VC…Prof Mohammed Kids.
The meeting also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working closely with security agencies, governing councils and other critical stakeholders to ensure that campuses remain safe, students are protected, and tertiary institutions are empowered to deliver quality teaching, impactful research and meaningful national development.
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