In her continuous commitment to ensuring a safe and secure learning environment, McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State, organised a two-day in-house security training for its security personnel, focusing on the theme “The Principles of Effective Campus Security Coverage.”
Over 15 in-house security officers participated in the training, which covered a wide range of areas including crime prevention methodology, intelligence gathering, access control methodology, protection of critical and strategic facilities, and fire preventive measures. Other aspects focused on understanding the peculiarities of the campus security environment, the roles and attributes of security personnel, monitoring students’ lives on campus, and the principles of VIP protection such as orderly conduct, escort teams and drivers.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Igbasan, in his remarks, noted that as the University continues to grow, so do its security challenges. He urged participants to pay close attention and apply the knowledge gained. “The University has paid for this training, and you should make the best use of it. Campus security is a collective responsibility, and together we can foster a safe academic environment that supports excellence,” he said.
The lead facilitator, Dr. Olushola Adetoyinbo, former Chief Security Officer at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and a Fellow of the International Institute of Professional Security, alongside Mrs. Florence Adetoyinbo of Advent Training and Development Centre, handled the sessions. Dr. Adeteyinbo, known for his vast knowledge and experience in campus security, took participants through practical methods of securing the university community.
During the interactive session, Dr. Adetoyinbo emphasized the importance of proactive security measures, stating, “Security is all about neutralising crime. It is better to stop it before it happens than to investigate after it has been committed.” He further added, “We don’t believe in insecurity fallacy. Security requires constant improvement and readiness.”
Addressing participants further, Dr. Adetoyinbo stressed the importance of understanding the unique nature of campus security. He explained that monitoring students’ lives, protecting facilities, and providing VIP protection require a specialised approach different from general security practice.
The Vice-Chancellor, in appreciating the facilitators for presenting award to him, described the training as timely and impactful. “God has given me men and women who support my vision. This training and the awards given to us as a management team encourage us to do more for the growth of the University,” he remarked.
The Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale, and the University Bursar, Mrs. Aderonke Adeofun, also addressed the officers. They advised participants to take the training seriously, emphasising that the importance of security to the university’s progress cannot be overemphasised.
On behalf of the security personnel, the Senior Security Officer, Mr. Oluwaseyi Lala, expressed his gratitude to Prof. Igbasan and Management for organising the programme. He noted that the training would further equip the team to carry out their duties diligently and effectively.
