A devastating fire outbreak has struck the Taraba State Government Science Secondary School (GSSS) in Jalingo, leaving a trail of destruction and disruption on academic activities of the students.
In a statement issued by Jonathan Jolly, the Public Relations Officer of the ministry, say the incident occurred on Sunday and was quickly brought under control, thanks to the prompt response of the school authorities.
The Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Augustina, who visited the scene to assess the damage, assured the school community that government would provide necessary support to restore the affected facilities.
The fire destroyed classrooms and a multipurpose examination hall, causing significant damage to property, including desks and learning materials.
Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, as the cause of the fire is still unknown, but investigations are ongoing.
During the visit, Dr Augustina accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Idris Goje, and the Secretary in the ministry, Mr Benjamin Zantimaba, inspected the damaged facility, the multipurpose examination hall destroyed by the inferno.
She expressed deep concern over the incident and sympathised with the school management, staff, and students for the losses recorded.
Dr Augustina commended the school authorities, especially Principal Ibrahim Modibbo, for their efforts, which helped prevent the fire from spreading further.
She assured the school community that the government would conduct a detailed assessment of the damage to provide necessary support and restore the affected facility as quickly as possible.
She also emphasised the importance of strengthening safety measures in schools, including regular checks of intruders and improved fire prevention mechanisms, to avoid future occurrences.
The Principal of the school, Ibrahim Moddibo, appreciated Dr Augustina’s prompt visit and concern, as well as the entire management of the ministry, noting that the intervention would boost the morale of staff and students affected by the incident.
He added that there was need for state government to provide functional fire service vehicles for such incidents.
Sani Sulaiman
