From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives said it will recommend the establishment of a special fund for the security of schools in the country.
The Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, who made the disclosure, yesterday, while welcoming members back from the Easter/Sallah break, said the fund would be geared towards enhanced security in schools across the country.
Abbas, while condemning the spate of attacks on schools, expressed dismay that schools have become targets of attacks by terrorists and kidnappers. Consequently, he stated that the House, in collaboration with security agencies, will advocate comprehensive policies that would enhance security in the schools across the country.
He said: “We are painfully aware of the harrowing attacks that have specifically targeted our schools, where innocent children, especially girls, are abducted. Schools, which should be sanctuaries of learning and safety, have become targets for terrorists and kidnappers.
“These acts are not only heinous, but are direct attacks on the future of Nigeria and rob children of their right to education and secure childhood. The implications of these assaults stretch far beyond the immediate pain and disruption they cause. They sow fear in communities, discourage school attendance, and potentially stifle the education of a generation. We must not allow the ambitions of our children to be thwarted by fear.”
He added: “To this end, we recommend the establishment of a dedicated fund specifically for school safety. This fund will support the implementation of advanced security measures and training of security personnel and communities on strategies for protecting educational environments.
Mindful of the financial requirements, this model can be piloted in a few schools, especially those that are most vulnerable to such attacks.”
Furthermore, the speaker noted that the House, in line with its agenda to diversify the economy, will tighten regulations in the mining sectors, as well as “increase penalties for violations, and improve surveillance and enforcement mechanisms.” Abbas stated that “additionally, the House will amend and enact legislation that will deter such activities and promote a transparent and sustainable mining sector.
“These legislative measures will include stricter licensing processes, enhanced penalties for non-compliance, and incentives for adopting best practices in environmental conservation. By working together, we can foster an environment that encourages legitimate investors and protects local communities.”
Also, the speaker, while commending the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Yemi Cardoso, and his team for their efforts to contain inflation and ease pressure on the naira, called for long term measures that would strengthen the national currency.
“This includes implementing policies and initiatives focusing on value creation, multiplication and expansion. One sure, even if difficult, way of achieving this is through optimising agricultural and industrial productivity and exploring our mineral wealth, as indicated above. Revitalising rural areas and enhancing rural connectivity can increase local production and stimulate the primary market,” he stated.