The National Council of Women Societies, NCWS, have urged the authorities to enforce building codes and safety standards for all educational institutions spread across the country.
The call was in reaction to the recent school building collapse that occurred in Saint Academy, Jos, the capital of Plateau State.
In a statement, signed and made available to journalists on Sunday, by the Acting National President, NCWS, Mrs Geraldine Etuk, the group called on the governments at all levels to take immediate and decisive action to prevent such heart-wrenching occurrences in the future.
The council also advocated for a thorough inspection of all school buildings, especially those in dilapidated conditions, saying it would identify and address structural weaknesses,
She advocated that regular maintenance checks must be mandated to ensure safety in Schools.
Drumming that the safety and well-being of children are paramount, the Council said the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stringent measures to address the condition of school buildings across our nation.
They asked the authorities to provide adequate funding for the renovation and reconstruction of unsafe school buildings.
“This tragedy has highlighted the profound impact that inadequate infrastructure can have on women and children, who are often the most vulnerable members of our society.” NCWS mourns.
“Develop and implement comprehensive emergency response plans for schools to swiftly address any potential hazards and ensure the safety of pupils and staff,” they advised me.
While extending their heartfelt condolences to the families of the affected victims, the group said there is a need for the authorities concerned to insert the right peg in the right hole to prevent further damage.
School Building Collapse: NCWS seeks enforcement of construction codes in Nigeria