Dr. Augustina, the Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Taraba state has paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to Government Science Secondary School (GSSS), Jalingo, following a fire outbreak that affected parts of the school on Sunday 11th January, 2026 around 2pm.

During the visit, Dr. Augustina together with the Permanent Secretary, Alh. Idris A. Goje and the Secretary, Mr Benjamin Zantimaba inspected the damaged facility, the multipurpose examination hall destroyed by the inferno. She expressed deep concern over the incident and sympathized with the school management, staff, and students for the losses recorded.

Dr. Augustina commended the school authorities, especially the Principal, Ibrahim Modibbo which helped prevent the fire from spreading further. She assured the school community that the government would carry out a detailed assessment of the damage with a view to providing necessary support and restoring affected facility as quickly as possible.

She also emphasized the importance of strengthening safety measures in schools, including regular checks of intruders and improved fire prevention mechanisms, to avoid future occurrences.

The Principal of the school appreciated Dr. Augustina’s prompt visit and concern and entire management of the ministry, noting that the intervention would boost the morale of staff and students affected by the incident.

No lives were lost in the fire outbreak, but property, desks and some learning materials were damaged. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.