Insecurity: UBEC, NAF strengthen partnership for safer school environment
By Uji A Iliyasu, Abuja
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has declared its readiness to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to enhance safety and security across basic education schools nationwide.
UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, made this known on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
Garba commended the Nigerian Air Force for its discipline, national service and longstanding contributions to security and development, while expressing concern over the rising threats to school safety across the country.
She stressed that no education system can function effectively in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
“At UBEC, we know that giving every Nigerian child access to quality basic education is not something we can achieve alone. It requires collaboration, shared commitment and strong partnerships across institutions.
The issue of safety in our schools has become one of our biggest concerns. We can build classrooms and provide learning materials, but children cannot learn, and teachers cannot give their best, when they feel unsafe,” she said.
The UBEC boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to technical cooperation that strengthens school protection, improves learning outcomes and enhances system resilience. She expressed optimism that the collaboration with the Air Force would provide better security for schools, boost public confidence and create an environment where children can learn without fear.
In his remarks, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Aneke, underscored the importance of the partnership, noting that the Nigerian Air Force attaches high priority to education both within and beyond its system.
He disclosed that the Air Force has quality control units and evaluators dedicated to ensuring that its educational standards align with global aspirations for children.
Aneke also stressed that basic education is the foundation for discipline, innovation, civic responsibility and national cohesion. He appealed for the inclusion of Air Force teachers in UBEC-supported professional development programmes to further enhance their capacity.
The Air Chief reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to supporting national initiatives that promote stability, learning and productive citizenship, in line with the president’s Renewed Hope agenda.