SCHOOL SECURITY MANAGEMENT AND STUDENTS’ SAFETY IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BANDITRY-AFFECTED AREAS IN SAFANA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of school security management and students’ safety in public secondary schools in banditry-affected areas in safana local government area of katsina state. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 400 respondents, including principals, teachers, security personnel, and students. The findings reveal that insecurity has led to frequent school closures, a significant decline in student enrollment and attendance, and pervasive fear among students due to inadequate security infrastructure such as fencing, gates, and surveillance systems. Respondents also reported that security personnel are often under-trained to handle banditry-related emergencies. Chi-square tests confirmed significant relationships between the adequacy of school security management and student safety (χ² = 15.68, p = 0.004), as well as between infrastructural deficiencies, poor coordination with security agencies, and ineffective security management (χ² = 18.29, p = 0.002). Mean scores across key indicators ranged from 3.53 to 3.64, demonstrating strong agreement on the severity of these challenges. The study recommends urgent investment in physical security measures, comprehensive training programs for security personnel, and enhanced collaboration between schools and local law enforcement agencies to create safer learning environments. These measures are essential to protect students, restore confidence in public education, and ensure continuous academic progress in conflict-affected regions.