Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has called on the Federal government and its relevant agencies to beef up security around schools nationwide to prevent killings, kidnapping and other vices.
He also called on governments at all levels to adopt policies that strengthen security awareness across the country, particularly within the education sector.
He said the call became imperative in view of the rising spate of insecurity, especially attacks and kidnapping of school pupils across the country.
Soyinka made the call in a remark when he visited his Alma Mater – Government College Ibadan – at the weekend.
He said the recent development demanded a fundamental change in how security is perceived and taught in society.
Soyinka said: “We need policies that instil security consciousness in our citizens. Security should be treated with such seriousness that it becomes a discipline taught in schools.”
He added that the issue of security should not be left in the hands of the government and its agencies, rather it calls for collaborative efforts.
He noted that the current crisis has cut across social classes and professions, affecting farmers, students, teachers, health workers, and even traditional rulers.
He warned that the situation has reached a critical point, saying, “Kidnappings now affect every sector. When insecurity reaches this level, urgent and drastic steps are necessary to prevent future occurrences.”
He also expressed concern about the psychological impact of insecurity on young learners, explaining that constant fear disrupts learning, weakens creativity, and undermines national development.
He, therefore, called on policymakers, educators, and civil society organisations to collaborate on a framework that integrates security education into the school curriculum, combining theory with practical safety drills and emergency response training.
In his address, the President of the Government College Ibadan Old Boys Association, Dr. Wale Babalakin, praised Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, for concessioning the school to its alumni association.
He said the decision has enabled the Old boys to invest in modern infrastructure, improve academic resources, and restore the institution to a standard that once produced some of Nigeria’s most notable achievers.
Babalakin said: “The concession has allowed us to manage and upgrade this institution to the standards that once produced exceptional students.”
He added that the school’s revival demonstrated what is possible when government, alumni networks, and the private sector work together in the interest of education.
Babalakin further encouraged students to take full advantage of the improved environment and commit themselves to excellence.
He urged youths not to lose sight of the transformative power of education, stating that “young people must take their education seriously, and stakeholders should create more platforms that inspire and support students to become better individuals in society.”
The visit, which attracted several dignitaries and old students of the institution, also featured discussions on strengthening alumni engagement, sustaining infrastructural development, and promoting a safer learning environment.