SCHOOL SAFETY CHALLENGES AND ROLES OF COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS IN MANAGING PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND HEAD TEACHERS’ JOB PERFORMANCE IN NORTH-WEST, NIGERIA

This study investigated School Safety challenges and Roles of Community-Based Organizations in Managing Primary Schools and head teachers’ job performance in North-West, Nigeria. The study specifically aimed to assess the effects of school safety on head teachers’ performance and educational quality, and to examine the role of CBOs in enhancing safety and supporting leadership. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, involving 420 respondents, including head teachers, teachers, pupils, parents, CBO representatives, and education officials from Katsina, Kano, and Kaduna states. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated that overall school safety is low (grand mean = 2.50), with significant concerns in fencing, security personnel, external threats, and infrastructure. Control of bullying was moderate (2.88), suggesting partial internal safety measures. CBO participation was moderate (grand mean = 2.60), contributing to resource mobilization, attendance monitoring, security support, and collaboration with head teachers, but their involvement in decision-making was low (2.34), reflecting limited governance influence. Low safety negatively affected head teachers’ job performance, reducing their ability to lead effectively, while moderate CBO engagement only partially addressed these challenges. The study recommends enhancing school security measures, providing professional development and resource support for head teachers, and promoting meaningful CBO involvement in decision-making and school governance. Strengthening the synergy among school leadership, community participation, and safety initiatives is critical to improving discipline, teaching quality, and overall educational outcomes in North-Western Nigeria.