Following the killing of a university student during a suspected phone robbery in Lapai, authorities in Niger State have launched a series of emergency security reforms aimed at protecting students at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU).
The tragic incident sparked anger and fear across the campus, prompting urgent meetings between government officials, university leadership, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders.
Speaking during one such meeting, Commissioner Hamidu Jantabo assured students of immediate action, including the deployment of local vigilante patrols, the establishment of security checkpoints, and new infrastructure support.
“We cannot allow another tragedy of this kind. The state is committed to strengthening safety around the university and across Lapai,” Jantabo declared. He condemned the use of weapons during student protests, warning that future offenders could face legal consequences under pending penal reforms.
The commissioner also addressed the issue of unregulated student housing, criticising landlords who charge high rents for accommodation lacking basic safety features. He pledged to partner with the Niger State Urban Development Board (NUDB) to investigate and potentially shut down unsafe buildings.
“We estimate that over 90 per cent of student lodges in Lapai have not received formal approval,” Jantabo said. “That must change.”
In support of the initiative, Prof. Mohammed Sulaiman, Vice-Chancellor of IBBU, encouraged students to remain vigilant and maintain open communication with neighbours. “Your safety starts with awareness. Don’t live in isolation; build community trust,” he advised.
Sulaiman also met with Emir Umar Bago III of Lapai to explore local solutions, emphasising the importance of traditional institutions in promoting public safety and social harmony.
The meetings concluded with a joint pledge by state officials, university leadership, traditional rulers, students, and security agencies to implement lasting reforms. The university community also held a prayer session for the slain student and expressed collective determination to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
