The Federal Government has urged principals of the 117 Federal Unity Colleges nationwide to strengthen security measures and adopt proactive strategies to prevent attacks on schools amid growing insecurity.

The Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Folake Olatunji-David, gave the directive at the 2026 Annual General Meeting of Principals of Federal Unity Colleges in Abuja.

The meeting with the theme, “Nigerian Schools in the Midst of Insecurity: Building Safe, Resilient and Sustainable Learning Environments,” centered on improving school safety and ensuring uninterrupted learning despite security threats.

Mrs Olatunji-David described principals as the chief security officers of their institutions, urging them to strengthen access control, intelligence gathering and early-warning systems, while enhancing collaboration with host communities and security agencies.

She also called for regular emergency drills, counselling services and psychosocial support for students, as well as alternative learning in a bid to curb disruptions to education during security emergencies.

The Commander of the National Safe School Response Coordination Centre, ACG Umanah Anedi, also urged principals to review and update their security plans, appoint and train safety focal persons, and carry out at least two emergency drills every academic session.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding learners and educational institutions through stronger institutional accountability, improved emergency preparedness and collaboration with relevant security agencies.