The Edo State Police Command has assured the safety of students during the forthcoming NANS one-day symposium and inter-school quiz competition, tagged: “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats”, taking place on Friday, June 20th at the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.
Edo Police Commissioner, CP Monday Agbonika, gave the assurance when he received members of the National Association of Nigerian Students, led by the State Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Matters, Comrade Mubarak Jimah, on a visit to the command headquarters, in Benin City.
In a statement by Media Adviser to the NANS Chairman, Ogochukwu Isioma, he said the visit, part of NANS’ ongoing advocacy to promote security across campuses in Edo State, focused on fostering a stronger collaboration between students and law enforcement in addressing issues such as cultism, cybercrime, and physical insecurity within tertiary institutions.
While addressing the student leaders, CP Agbonika commended NANS for its proactive approach towards ensuring campus safety and applauded the Comrade Timileyin-led executive council for prioritizing student welfare.
“Your initiative is commendable. The safety of our students is paramount, and we welcome this partnership to strengthen our presence and response on campuses,” the police commissioner stated.
He further accepted the invitation to serve as keynote speaker at the event. “Our young people deserve an environment where learning can thrive free from fear,” CP Agbonika said. “I am honoured to accept your invitation to outline practical measures for a truly safe campus.
“We are committed to this collaboration. On the day of your event, the police will be present, not just as observers, but as partners in shaping safer environments for students,” the police commissioner assured.
In his remarks, NANS Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Timileyin, thanked the CP for the swift response and emphasized the need for a sustainable and strategic partnership with the police to ensure the long-term security of students.
“Today marks a breakthrough in student-police relations”, he remarked. “By bringing security experts into direct dialogue with those they protect, we move from theory to action in safeguarding every dormitory across Edo.
“We believe this engagement with the police will lay the groundwork for practical, long-lasting safety interventions on our campuses. We thank the CP for his support and leadership,” Comrade Timileyin noted.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, SSA Mubarak Jimah reiterated Governor Monday Okpebholo’s unwavering support for student welfare initiatives and thanked the commissioner for embracing the students’ outreach.
“This collaboration reinforces the SHINE agenda of His Excellency, particularly in the areas of security and education. We are glad to have the police onboard as we tackle student-related threats head-on,” he said.
“Governor Okpebholo recognises that academic excellence and personal security go hand in hand,” Comrade Jimah noted. “This collaboration will be a model for how state government, students and security agencies can work together.”
Comrade Stephen Imafidon Imadeyogie, Chairman of the Planning Committee, stressed the long-term impact of the dialogue. This is not a one-off event; it is the cornerstone of an ongoing safety framework that will evolve with our institutions’ needs,” he said.
Other notable attendees at the meeting included Comrade Chima Okochi, Secretary of the Planning Committee; Comrade Andrew Oghenevo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Control; Comrade Etinosa Agho; a NANS stakeholder; and Efe Omogui, a member of the planning committee.
The outcome of the meeting, according to the organisers, was not only inspiring but also a solid foundation for future collaboration. With the endorsement of the police, the upcoming symposium is expected to deliver meaningful discourse and practical strategies to combat the growing threats facing students across Edo campuses.
