Assessment of the Role of Administrators in the Management of Insecurity in Public Secondary Schools of Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the function of school administrators in addressing insecurity within public secondary schools in the Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria. The research employed a descriptive survey design to examine the major forms and root causes of insecurity, administrative strategies for threat prevention and response, levels of emergency preparedness, and key obstacles limiting effective security management. A sample of 248 respondents comprising principals, vice principals, and teachers was selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire with 80 items and analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that infrastructural deficiencies, particularly inadequate school fencing and insufficient security personnel, constituted the primary security vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, common school-based issues, including theft, vandalism, and bullying, were significant concerns which led to insecurity in school. The study finds out that administrators predominantly employed reactive, authority-based strategies focusing on rule enforcement and supervision, with limited implementation of preventive measures like security drills and community partnerships due to their mean score (Mean=2.75). Similarly, the extreme external threats like kidnapping were perceived as less immediate. Emergency preparedness was moderate for basic measures but deficient in comprehensive planning and regular drills. Thus, recommendations include School administrators must be equipped with adequate skills and knowledge to effectively manage school security. Regular professional development workshops and training sessions should be organised for school leaders, focusing on conflict management, crisis resolution, risk assessment, and communication skills. Training should also include the use of modern security technologies, such as surveillance systems and data management, to support the administration in ensuring a safer school environment. We should also provide school administrators with access to resources that enhance their leadership capabilities, such as security management. Local Government and Educational Authorities should prioritize the construction and maintenance of physical barriers around school premises