The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding schools and ensuring a secure learning environment across the country.

Musa gave the assurance yesterday in Abuja while receiving the Distinguished Service in National Peace and Security Merit Award from the National Parent Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN).

The minister emphasised that security remained central to educational development, stressing that a safe environment was crucial for effective teaching and learning.

“Without security, there can be no conducive learning environment.

“We will continue to work seriously to ensure that our schools remain safe across the country,” he said.

Musa praised parents and teachers for their role in shaping responsible citizens, noting that discipline and quality education were vital to national stability.

The minister described parents and teachers as the “twin pillars” of a child’s development, stressing that their collaboration was essential to building Nigeria’s future leadership.

Receiving the award with gratitude, Musa said the recognition strengthened his resolve to pursue policies and initiatives that promote safe, inclusive, and well-resourced schools nationwide.

He also reaffirmed the Defence Ministry’s partnership with education stakeholders to protect schools from criminal threats and sustain gains recorded under the Safe School Programme.

NAPTAN’s National President Haruna Danjuma said the association honoured Musa in recognition of his “dynamic and proactive” efforts to secure schools and protect Nigerian children.

Danjuma recalled the introduction of the Safe School initiative in 2024, saying parents were encouraged by renewed strategies to curb school-related insecurity.

The NAPTAN national president hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the enabling environment for the defence minister to advance national security reforms.

He also called for dynamic approaches by the military and other security agencies to ensure the safety of schools across the country.

Also, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, described the award as a reflection of the strong bond between the Armed Forces, schools, and the wider society.

He assured stakeholders that the ministry would continue to work with parents, teachers, and communities to secure the nation and protect future generations.