Calabar, June 2, 2026 — The Cross River State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has raised concerns over the vulnerability of public schools in the state, citing inadequate security arrangements as a major risk to teachers and pupils.
The state NUT Chairman, Mr. Gregory Olayi, made the observation in Calabar on Tuesday while speaking with journalists after a protest organised by the union in solidarity with their counterparts in Oyo State.
Olayi stated that many public schools across Cross River operate without perimeter fencing and lack the presence of security personnel, leaving school environments exposed to potential attacks.
He warned that the absence of basic security infrastructure poses serious safety challenges for both teachers and students.
According to him, “Public schools operate in wide-open environments, which creates a significant security risk for both staff and learners.”
The union chairman expressed concern over rising incidents of violence targeting educational institutions, noting that the protest was also a response to recent cases of kidnapping involving teachers and students in Oyo State.
He called on political leaders at all levels to prioritise the protection of lives and property, stressing that no part of the country should become complacent in addressing insecurity.
“We must all demonstrate stronger commitment to the fight against insecurity. No state should feel safe while others are at risk,” he said.
Olayi urged the Cross River State Government to urgently recruit trained security personnel for public schools and ensure the construction of perimeter fencing to improve safety across learning environments.