FG Sets Up Committee To Investigate Jos Building Collapse That Killed 22 Pupils

A high-powered committee has been set up by the federal government to probe the collapse of the Saint Academy building in the Busa Buji community of Jos North.

The unfortunate incident which took place on Friday, July 12, 2024, resulted in the deaths of 22 school children, with many others sustaining injuries.

The committee was inaugurated in Jos by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, North Central Zone, Prof. Samson Duna.

“In response to this tragedy, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Geofrey Nnaji, has authorised the formation of a committee to investigate the building collapse at Saint Academy.

“Preliminary investigations have already revealed several issues. Physical observations indicate structural distress, concerns over the quality of concrete due to inadequate reinforcement between concrete and steel, insufficient anchorage of slab reinforcements, and footings sizes smaller than required (1200mmx1200mm),” he said.

Duna also emphasized the need for strict adherence to regulations, quality control, professionalism, and effective monitoring and evaluation in construction practices while pointing out the disturbing spate of building collapse in Nigeria.

He further enjoined stakeholders to prioritize public safety and awareness in building projects.