Growing security concerns across Nigeria have prompted schools, churches and transport operators to introduce additional measures to protect students, worshippers and travellers from possible attacks.
Some schools have created emergency exit routes, strengthened perimeter fences, installed surveillance cameras and increased security personnel around their premises.
The move follows reported warnings from security authorities about possible isolated attacks by terrorist and bandit groups seeking to create fear after being displaced from some of their northern enclaves.
The Office of the National Security Adviser reportedly issued an advisory dated August 27, urging vigilance over potential security threats.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers said it was working with government and security agencies to improve safety in schools, particularly in rural communities.
The union’s First Vice-President, Bashir Oyewo, said discussions had been held with the Federal Government on strengthening school security and reviewing the Safe School Project.
The Parents-Teachers Association of Nigeria has also increased its involvement, with its National President, Hussein Danjuma, saying PTAs in several communities were hiring additional security guards because many public schools lacked adequate personnel.
In Lagos, a school principal in Ikorodu said his institution had created an additional exit route and sensitised pupils on how to use it during emergencies.
Private schools in Osun State are also adopting measures such as installing CCTV cameras, raising perimeter fences and employing local security operatives.
A boarding school proprietor in Ibadan, Oyo State, said his school had built a guard tower, increased the height of its fence and restricted access to the premises.
Transport operators have also responded by limiting night journeys.
The Joint Drivers Welfare Association of Nigeria said members had been advised to start journeys from 6am and avoid being on the road after 7pm.
The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria also directed transport operators to increase vigilance at motor parks and on highways, while drivers were encouraged to report suspicious people, vehicles and movements to security agencies.
Meanwhile, the National Youth Service Corps is reportedly reviewing its deployment policy amid concerns over the safety of corps members travelling to different parts of the country.
A senior NYSC official said posting corps members to their states of origin was among the options being considered.
The scheme is also said to be strengthening collaboration with security agencies to provide patrols, escorts and intelligence support along routes used by corps members.
Churches have equally reviewed their security arrangements, with some increasing surveillance and identifying new members as part of their preventive measures.
The developments highlight growing concerns over insecurity and the increasing efforts by institutions and organisations to strengthen their preparedness against possible attacks.
