With primary and secondary schools commencing their third-term academic session, the prevailing security situation in the nation is causing apprehension among some parents and guardians.
Prior to the Easter break, certain schools, especially in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighboring Kaduna State, had to close down due to security concerns.
Many schools had to adjust their schedules to accommodate the completion of second-term exams amidst reports of rampant terrorist activities leading to the abduction of schoolchildren primarily in the northern region.
Between March 6 and March 11, a staggering number of about 800 unsuspecting Nigerians, including schoolchildren, were kidnapped by daring terrorists wreaking havoc across the country.
There were alarming reports before the Easter break indicating that kidnappers were planning attacks on several government-owned schools, specifically in Bwari Area Council, FCT.
Despite the worries, parents found some relief as schools finished their exams and headed for the break from March 27 to March 29.
Now with the break over, both public and private schools are set to resume on Monday, April 22.
A check on Saturday revealed heightened security measures in and around many schools within the FCT to ensure the safety of students.
However, parents, expressing their concerns in conversations with our correspondent, expressed fears of potential attacks on schools and the abduction of children.
During an interview, Pastor Daniel Abimbola emphasized the necessity for both the government to provide ample security for students and for parents to seek divine protection for their children.
He urged everyone to find comfort in their faith and trust that their children are under the protection of a higher power amidst the prevailing insecurity challenges.
Similarly, Mrs. Paulina Odoh called on the Federal Government to prioritize the security of schoolchildren, stressing on the need for proactive measures and adequate security in all schools.
Reports gathered suggest that some schools in parts of Kaduna, particularly the Kuriga community in Chikun Local Government Area, are hesitant to resume due to security concerns.
However, when approached, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, assured the public that there are no security threats in the area.
On a positive note, the spokesperson of Nasarawa State Police Command, DSP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed that the state is safe for the resumption of students on Monday.
In a bid to strengthen security measures in schools nationwide, the National Coordinator of the Financing Safe Schools Initiative, Mrs. Halima Iliya, disclosed plans to engage hunters and vigilantes in intelligence gathering to prevent attacks on schools.
She outlined upcoming community engagements and awareness campaigns aimed at safeguarding students, parents, and teachers, with plans to train local vigilantes and youth volunteers to enhance security within their communities.