Plateau crisis: Lagos govt relocates over 230 UNIJOS students

The Lagos State Government has evacuated more than 230 students from the state studying at the University of Jos, UNIJOS, following heightened security concerns in Plateau State.

The decision came in response to unrest in the state, which led to the temporary closure of the institution and suspension of academic activities.

Authorities in Lagos moved swiftly to ensure the safety of affected students.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through the Lagos State Ministry of Tertiary Education, facilitated the evacuation by deploying a convoy of buses accompanied by security personnel. The operation ensured the safe return of all students to Lagos without incident.

The Ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mamud Hassan, explained that the intervention became necessary due to growing reports of insecurity in Jos, stressing that the welfare of Lagos indigenes studying outside the state remains a top priority.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, who personally received the students on arrival, praised the collaboration between the Lagos State Government, security agencies, and Plateau State authorities in executing the operation successfully.

He noted that all necessary precautions were taken to move the students from vulnerable areas safely.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens, particularly students pursuing their education across the country, remain paramount,” Hassan said, while also acknowledging efforts by federal authorities and security agencies in restoring calm in Plateau State.

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Adeniran Kasali, assured parents and guardians that the students were in good condition upon their return. He said the evacuees underwent debriefing and health checks before being reunited with their families.

The evacuation exercise was coordinated by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tertiary Education and Student Union Affairs, Samuel Kappo, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure a seamless process.

The Lagos State Government said it will continue to monitor developments in Plateau State and at UNIJOS, while expressing hope for a quick restoration of peace that would allow students to resume their academic pursuits.

Officials added that the operation shows the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and ensuring that education is not disrupted by insecurity in other parts of the country.