Security Operatives Pay Historic Visit to Niepa, Pledge Collaboration_

In a historic first, a high-powered joint team of security operatives from the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS) paid a courtesy call to the Ag. Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), Dr. David Shofoyeke, on Friday, July 12, 2024.

The visit comes on the heels of the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa’s directive to security formations to tackle the escalating cases of kidnapping and banditry plaguing critical sectors of the nation. In line with this mandate, the team, led by Sector Commander 323 Artillery Regiment, Owena Cantonment, Akure, Lieutenant S.H. Garba, and Bello Olorunsogo from the DSS Ondo West Zone, discussed areas of collaboration with the Institute to forestall potential security breaches and ensure the safety of staff, participants, and facilities.

The Ag. Registrar of the Institute, Dr. Festus Olaolu, Mr. Bola Adéjọbí representing the Ag. Bursar, and the Chief Security Officer of the Institute, Mr. Adebayo, were on ground to receive the visitors. Dr. Shofoyeke emphasized the importance of security collaboration, given NIEPA’s role as a training Institute that hosts participants in its guest houses during workshops, conferences, and seminars. He sought the security operatives’ support in forestalling potential security breaches. In response, the Artillery Commandant pledged to provide constant patrols and security coverage for the Institute, ensuring a safe environment for all. The DG appreciated the security team’s commitment and appealed for a continuous relationship between both organizations.

This landmark visit marks a significant step towards strengthening security ties between NIEPA and the security agencies, fostering a safer environment for educational pursuits.