This was revealed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Strategies to the PCRC National Chairman, Arákùnrin Badmus Omoniyi Saburi.
According to the statement, the final approval was granted after the Inspector-General reviewed the implementation framework of the initiative during a meeting at the Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja. His endorsement officially clears the way for the programme to commence across the country.
As part of the approval, the police chief also selected one of the three proposed Safe School Club uniforms presented to him. The approved design, which includes a distinctive Fez cap, will serve as the official uniform for members of the initiative nationwide.
The Inspector-General further approved a specially designed traffic safety banner to be used by students while crossing roads to and from school, describing it as an important measure to enhance the safety and welfare of schoolchildren.
The statement said IGP Disu commended the leadership of the PCRC, led by its National Chairman, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, for championing the initiative. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to supporting the programme and expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to ensure its successful implementation.
To guarantee effective coordination, the IGP advised the PCRC to build a membership of more than 10,000 participants under the Safe School Programme. He also directed that the approved uniforms incorporate adequate security coding and identification features to ensure every uniform is traceable to its rightful owner and to prevent misuse.
The police chief concluded by praying for the success, protection and sustainability of the initiative across the country.
Responding on behalf of the PCRC National Executive Committee, the National Chairman, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, thanked the Inspector-General for endorsing the committee’s vision and providing the institutional backing required to implement the programme.
He assured the IGP that the PCRC National Executive Committee would work closely with POLCACOF, the Force Public Relations Department and the Commissioner of Police overseeing the Safe School Programme to ensure the initiative achieves its objectives.
Olaniyan also commended the Chairman of the PCRC in Rivers State, Dr. Voke, for leading the IGP Special Assignment Committee with dedication, professionalism and efficiency. According to the statement, his outstanding performance earned the commendation of the Inspector-General and members of the Force Management Team.
The statement also acknowledged members of the IGP Special Assignment Committee for their contributions to strategic national assignments, particularly engagements involving traditional rulers. It further recognised the National Coordinator of the Safe School Initiative, Amb. Chief Samuel Olaoluwa Akintoye, for his commitment and strategic coordination, which were instrumental in bringing the initiative to its implementation stage.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General’s approval marks the successful completion of the planning phase and signals the official commencement of implementation by the PCRC National Executive Committee.
The initiative is expected to improve safety in schools, promote security awareness among students, encourage stronger community participation in policing and deepen collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and communities across Nigeria.