Following a spike in school attacks and student abductions, the Nigerian Senate is investigating the funding of the Safe Schools Initiative. Launched after the 2014 Chibok tragedy, the program has seen over N145 billion in allocations between 2023 and 2026. Responsibility for these funds, previously held by the Ministry of Finance, is now shifting to the Federal Ministry of Education.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa informed the Senate Ad Hoc Committee, led by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, that his ministry has established a specialized department to oversee the initiative. Alausa argued that a centralized command within the education sector is essential to coordinate protection efforts across all 774 local government areas. He emphasized that the initiative extends beyond mere security, encompassing infrastructure like lighting, perimeter fencing, and sanitation, alongside technological integration.
While Alausa highlighted the need for caution regarding sensitive security operations, Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele downplayed the administrative friction. He stated that the primary objective remains the timely and adequate funding of security measures rather than which ministry oversees the budget. The Finance Ministry, acting as the national accountant, continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to resolve management details.
Alhaji Haruna Danjuma, leader of the National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria, stated that parents remain focused on accountability rather than bureaucratic control. He stressed that funds must reach schools directly, with oversight from community leaders and local stakeholders, to ensure that the initiative finally provides the safety students and teachers urgently need.
