By Adeboye Ado
The Nigeria Police Force has announced plans to expand its School Protection Unit services to include tertiary institutions in Ondo State, with Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) set to benefit from the initiative.
This was revealed during a courtesy visit by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, to the university on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
The visit was also part of the CP’s familiarisation tour of key institutions in the state.
Welcoming the police delegation, the Vice Chancellor of AAUA, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to partnering with law enforcement and other security agencies to enhance safety within the campus and its host community.
Prof. Ige emphasised the institution’s dedication to safeguarding students and staff, stating, “The safety of lives and property remains a top priority for us. We are ready to go the extra mile to support the police in flushing out criminal elements from our environment.”
The Vice Chancellor also appealed to the Commissioner to consider deploying more police personnel to both the university and the Akungba community, while calling for stronger cooperation among stakeholders, including neighbouring communities and various security outfits.
He further praised the efforts of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Akungba and his team for their continued commitment to peace and order on campus, assuring that the university will maintain and strengthen its collaboration with the police.
In his response, CP Lawal lauded the proactive security measures taken by AAUA’s management.
He revealed that the police are now expanding the reach of the School Protection Unit, originally set up for secondary schools, to cover universities and other higher institutions in the state.
“We’re also looking to revive the Student-Police Relations Committee,” the CP said, “to encourage open dialogue and prevent issues from escalating.”
He added that the command will increase police visibility in and around the campus, deploying both uniformed and plainclothes officers to enhance surveillance. Tactical teams will also be stationed periodically to ensure round-the-clock security.
CP Lawal was accompanied by his Deputy Commissioner of Police, Area Commanders, DPOs, and other senior officials during the visit.