Secondary school students in Nasarawa State have called upon the federal government and the Nigerian Army to adopt a community-focused strategy in combating terrorism and insurgency. They strongly believe that this approach will significantly improve the safety of schools nationwide.
The students voiced their concerns during a public speaking event held on Wednesday at the Federal Science and Technical College in Doma, Nasarawa State. Organized by the troops of the 4 Special Forces Command Doma as part of the 2024 Nigerian Army Day Celebration, the event provided a platform for the students to engage directly with soldiers, discussing military operations and security issues.
Colonel Ebiowei Odede, representing Major General Hilary Nzan, Commander of the 4 Special Forces Command Doma, underscored the importance of fostering trust in the Nigerian Army. He highlighted that drug abuse and extremist ideologies are major factors driving terrorism and insurgency, stressing the necessity of educating students about the perils of criminal behaviors.
In response, the students urged the government and security agencies to formulate a strategic framework focused on sustainable intelligence gathering and information sharing to ensure their safety. Halima Isa and Kassam Seyilnen, among the students present, emphasized the urgency for coordinated efforts between authorities to effectively tackle the challenges. They called for a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of terrorism and insurgency.
Mrs. Grace Golen, Principal of Federal Science and Technical College, Doma, lauded the initiative as unprecedented and timely. She emphasized the critical need for enhanced security measures to safeguard schools from threats posed by terrorism and insurgency.
The public speaking event also included presentations on career opportunities within the Nigerian Army, advocacy against cultism and substance abuse, and the importance of upholding honesty and integrity in all aspects of life.
