The Lagos State Government has evacuated over 230 students of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) following rising security concerns in Plateau State, which led to the closure of the institution and suspension of academic activities.
In response, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through the Lagos State Ministry of Tertiary Education, deployed a convoy of buses accompanied by security escorts to bring the affected students safely back to Lagos.
The evacuation was coordinated by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tertiary Education and Students Union Affairs, Mr Samuel Kappo.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mamud Hassan.
Hassan said the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, who received the returning students, explained that the evacuation was necessary to protect the lives of Lagos indigenes studying outside the state.
He added that the government could not ignore reports of insecurity in Jos and commended security agencies for ensuring the safe evacuation of the students.
The statement partly read, “The safety and well-being of our citizens, particularly our youth pursuing education across the country, remain a top priority for this administration.
“We could not remain indifferent to the distressing reports coming out of Jos. We thank Mr President for restoring peace to Plateau State, the state government and the security agencies for their cooperation in ensuring our students were moved out of the flashpoints without further incident.
“In his address to the students, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Adeniran Kasali urges parents and guardians of the evacuated students to remain calm. According to him, all returning students have been debriefed and checked for wellness upon arrival before being reunited with their families.
“The Lagos State Government will continue to monitor the situation in Plateau State and the University of Jos in particular for further development and pray for a swift return to peace and stability in the state.