By Our Correspondent

National News – The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has assured Nigerians of swift and coordinated action to safeguard students in tertiary institutions nationwide.

During a visit to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) headquarters in Abuja, Aneke highlighted the importance of rapid response capabilities, particularly in remote areas, despite the logistical challenges posed by Nigeria’s vast terrain.

He noted that the Air Force is enhancing its operational readiness so that emergency support can be deployed at the push of a button.

Aneke stressed that while security matters cannot always be disclosed publicly, protecting students remains a top priority.

“The challenge is always the elapsed time between an event and the arrival of help. Luckily, the Air Force has both speed and reach,” he said.

He also called for public patience, recognizing the sacrifices of security personnel who operate day and night to ensure safety.

Speaking alongside him, TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono outlined strategic measures to improve campus security.

These include upgraded fencing, improved lighting, advanced communication tools for security personnel, and the creation of security quadrants in every tertiary institution.

Echono added that a comprehensive security master plan is underway in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and other agencies.

The initiative aims to extend the Safe Schools Programme to universities and colleges, ensuring students and staff are prepared for emergencies.

In recent years, security concerns such as kidnappings and violent attacks have disrupted learning in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

The government’s expanded focus on higher education campuses seeks to address these risks by combining preventive measures with rapid intervention strategies.

TETFund’s dedicated funding for security infrastructure represents a significant step toward safer learning environments for Nigeria’s students.