In a decisive move to protect students and learners, authorities in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State have ordered the immediate closure of a private school following the discovery of serious structural defects that posed significant safety risks. The closure, announced on January 20, 2026, reflects heightened concern over school infrastructure standards and the wellbeing of pupils across the region.
Safety Concerns Trigger Immediate Shutdown
Officials from the Jos North Local Government carried out an on-site inspection at the school — identified on signboards as Victory High Science School, although students’ uniforms bore the name Abu Sinan High School — revealing alarming cracks in key structural elements including load-bearing beams and walls. These fissures raised fears that the buildings could collapse under the strain of daily classroom use or during examinations.
In response, the council directed the school to cease operations immediately and send students home, describing the move as necessary to prevent loss of life and ensure that learning environments remain safe and conducive.
Concerns Over School Credibility and Infrastructure
The local government’s statement also flagged confusion about the school’s identity, with mismatched names on signage and student uniforms prompting questions about its registration and legitimacy. In addition to the structural cracks, inspectors noted several deficiencies in basic facilities, including poor ventilation, inadequate doors and windows, and insufficient toilet amenities — conditions judged unfit for educational activities.
Reapplication and Regulatory Compliance Required
Authorities have ordered the school’s management to reapply for approval, insisting that operations can only resume after submission of:
- A valid building plan that meets regulatory standards.
- Relevant registration certificates from appropriate educational and building authorities.
The council emphasized that compliance with approved building specifications is mandatory and warned other private school owners within Jos North to ensure their facilities meet safety and regulatory requirements, or face similar closures.
Broader Context: Historic Risks and Infrastructure Failures
Plateau State has experienced serious consequences from substandard school buildings in recent years. In July 2024, the collapse of a school building in Jos’s Busa Buji community killed dozens and trapped many more, prompting calls for stronger enforcement of construction and safety regulations in educational institutions.
The latest shutdown underscores the ongoing challenge of ensuring school infrastructure is both safe and fit for purpose, especially in contexts where lax enforcement can have tragic outcomes.
A Proactive Approach to Learner Safety
The Jos North Local Government’s action reflects a proactive stance on student safety — prioritizing lives over continuity of classes — and aligns with growing demands for strict adherence to building standards in school facilities. By mandating proper approvals and inspections, authorities aim to prevent avoidable accidents and reassure parents and communities that learners will only be taught in secure environments.
