File Photo: President Tinubu
The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors, rectors and provosts of tertiary institutions across Nigeria to dismiss any student found, after due investigation, to have participated in or planned the kidnapping of fellow students.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, gave the directive in Abuja during a meeting with the Pro-Chancellor, Governing Council and management of the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State.
He also ordered institutions to strengthen internal intelligence systems and improve collaboration with the Department of State Services and other security agencies.
Alausa said students found culpable of kidnapping have no place in tertiary institutions, stressing that campuses must not become safe havens for criminal elements.
He also said recent incidents involving students outside campuses underscored the need for stronger intelligence gathering and closer security coordination.
“Any student found culpable, after due investigation, of planning or participating in the kidnapping of fellow students has no place in our tertiary institutions. Such individuals must be dismissed.”
The minister said the Federal Government was working with the Ministry of Defence to strengthen the Safe Schools Initiative and protect learners nationwide.
He also announced plans to support security projects in tertiary institutions through the 2027 TETFund intervention programme, including perimeter fencing and other critical facilities, while efforts would continue to expand solar power and battery-storage capacity in institutions.
At the Federal University of Lafia, the Pro-Chancellor, Lola Akande, identified student accommodation, electricity supply at Campus Two and insecurity as some of the institution’s challenges.
She said there were suspicions that some students might have been involved in kidnapping activities outside the campus and stressed the institution’s opposition to the payment of ransom.
