By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo
The management of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, has renewed its commitment to ensuring the safety of students and staff, with support from the Ondo State Police Command.
Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Bayode Isaiah Popoola, gave the assurance while receiving the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Adebowale Lawal, who paid a courtesy visit to his office.
Prof Popoola, who appreciated the Police Chief’s visit, said his administration had prioritised security since assuming office, stressing that the safety of students both on and off campus remained a top concern.
He disclosed that the university had visited key security agencies — including the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) — to strengthen collaboration and intelligence sharing in Ondo town.
“We understand that safety is fundamental to learning. Our engagement with all security agencies is to ensure that students, wherever they reside, can study without fear,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor revealed plans to improve hostel facilities within the campus to accommodate more students, noting that only about 30 per cent of the student population currently reside on school grounds.
Earlier, Commissioner Lawal commended the university management for maintaining discipline and order, describing AFUED as a model of stability and academic excellence.
He pledged the Command’s readiness to work with the institution in addressing security threats, particularly those affecting students living off campus.
Lawal also proposed the registration of private hostels occupied by students to enhance intelligence gathering and help the Police identify potential risks. “If the hostels are properly documented, it becomes easier to protect the students and act swiftly whenever the need arises,” he said.
The Police boss further stressed that security should not be left to law enforcement agencies alone but should involve the community, school authorities and the students themselves.
He congratulated Prof Popoola on his appointment and assured him of continued police support in protecting lives and property within the institution.