Swift Rescue Efforts Underway in Plateau School Building Collapse

The Plateau State Government has expressed heartfelt condolences following the collapse of a school building in Jos on Friday. Despite the tragic event, the response from emergency services and the community has been commendable.

The unfortunate incident at Saint Academy, located in the Busa Buji community, resulted in the loss of 17 lives, with over 120 people initially trapped. The school building collapsed at approximately 8:30 am while students and teachers were in their classes.

The swift action by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Red Cross, and security agencies has been instrumental in rescuing many trapped individuals and transporting them to hospitals for immediate medical attention.

In a statement, the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, emphasized the government’s deep sadness over the incident. However, he also highlighted the importance of adhering to safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future. The government is urging all schools to comply with Executive Order 003 to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Hospitals in Jos have been directed to prioritize the treatment of the injured without any need for documentation or payment. The Commissioner of Health has mobilized all major hospitals in the area to attend to the victims promptly.

The rescue operation, led by SEMA’s Executive Secretary Sunday Àbdu, has been ongoing with significant progress. As of now, many individuals have been successfully evacuated and are receiving medical care. The rescue mission has demonstrated the resilience and dedication of the emergency services and the community in times of crisis.

This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of maintaining strict safety standards in building structures. The government is committed to taking all necessary measures to prevent future occurrences and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

The collective efforts and quick response from the community and emergency services offer hope and reassurance during this challenging time.