Following the tragic school building collapse in Jos, Plateau State, the National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the government to prioritize student safety by ensuring all educational institutions undergo integrity tests.
In a statement signed by NANS President, Pedro C. Obi, on Monday in Abuja, Obi highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue.
He said, “This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the negligence and complacency that has plagued our educational system for far too long. We cannot continue to risk the lives of our students by ignoring the dilapidated state of our school infrastructure.”
Obi expressed his condolences to the families affected by the collapse and called for a thorough investigation. “We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into the cause of this collapse, and those found responsible must be held accountable,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of enforcing building codes and regularly inspecting school facilities to prevent future incidents. “We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to strike before we take action. The time to act is now,” Obi emphasized.
The call to action has sparked a nationwide discussion on the need to improve educational infrastructure. In response, a government spokesperson stated, “The Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We will work with state governments to conduct a comprehensive review of school infrastructure across the country, and take prompt action to address any deficiencies.”
NANS praised the government’s quick response to the crisis and urged all stakeholders to work together to create a safer learning environment for Nigerian students. “We are grateful for the government’s swift response, but we will continue to hold them accountable for ensuring the safety and well-being of our students,” said Obi.
