Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding schools and ensuring a secure learning environment across the country.
Musa gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving the Distinguished Service in National Peace and Security Merit Award from the National Parent Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN).
He said security remained central to educational development, stressing that a safe environment was critical for effective teaching and learning.
“Without security, there can be no conducive learning environment.
“We will continue to work seriously to ensure that our schools remain safe across the country,” he said.
Musa commended parents and teachers for their role in shaping responsible citizens, noting that discipline and quality education were vital to national stability.
He described parents and teachers as the “twin pillars” of a child’s development, adding that their collaboration was essential to building Nigeria’s future leadership.
Receiving the award with gratitude, the minister said the recognition strengthened his resolve to pursue policies and initiatives that promote safe, inclusive, and well-resourced schools nationwide.
He also reaffirmed the Defence Ministry’s partnership with education stakeholders to protect schools from criminal threats and sustain gains recorded under the Safe School Programme.
Earlier, the National President of NAPTAN, Alhaji Haruna Danjuma, said the association honoured Musa in recognition of his “dynamic and proactive” efforts to secure schools and protect Nigerian children.
Danjuma recalled the introduction of the Safe School initiative in 2024 and said parents were encouraged by renewed strategies to curb school-related insecurity.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for providing the enabling environment for the Defence Minister to advance national security reforms.
He also called for dynamic approaches by the military and security agencies to ensure adequate safety of schools across the country.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, described the award as a reflection of the strong bond between the armed forces, schools and the wider society.
He assured stakeholders that the ministry would continue to work with parents, teachers and communities to secure the nation and protect future generations.
(NAN)
