The Kebbi State Government has established a high-level committee to investigate recent fire outbreaks in schools across the state and recommend measures to prevent their recurrence. This proactive step aims to ensure the safety of students and educational facilities following a series of concerning incidents. The decision was formally announced through a directive from the Office of the Executive Governor, communicated via the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy on January 14, 2026.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to understanding the root causes of these fires and implementing robust preventive strategies. A statement signed by Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Kebbi State Governor, on January 15, 2026, detailed the formation of this critical investigative body.
How to probe school fires effectively requires a multifaceted approach. The newly formed committee in Kebbi is tasked with a comprehensive investigation into both the underlying and immediate factors that have led to these infernos. Understanding these causes is the first crucial step in developing lasting solutions.
The committee is chaired by the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Hon. Ibrahim Muhammad Sakaba, bringing expert leadership to the investigation. His role will be pivotal in guiding the committee’s efforts and ensuring a thorough examination of the issues at hand.
Other key members include the Chairman of SUBEB, Prof. Sulaiman Khalid, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. Their presence ensures that the educational perspective is central to the inquiry, linking the safety concerns directly to the learning environment.
Representatives from the Police, DSS, and State Fire Service are also integral to the committee. Their inclusion brings essential security and emergency response expertise, vital for assessing damage and formulating practical safety measures.
The Executive Director of the Security Management Agency will serve as the secretary, managing the administrative and logistical aspects of the committee’s operations, ensuring smooth proceedings and timely reporting.
What is the primary objective of the Kebbi committee? Its terms of reference are clear: to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the infernos affecting schools, assess the extent of damage and losses, recommend appropriate safety and preventive measures, and submit a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations to the state government.
Assessing the extent of damage and losses is another critical component of the committee’s mandate. This will help in understanding the financial and material impact of the fires, informing decisions on rehabilitation and resource allocation.
Recommending appropriate safety, security, and preventive measures is where the committee’s work will have the most direct impact. This involves identifying vulnerabilities and proposing solutions to mitigate future risks, ensuring a safer learning environment for all.
The state government has assured residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting students, teachers, and school facilities. This commitment translates into taking concrete steps to prevent future incidents and restore confidence in the safety of educational institutions.
These preventative measures will likely include enhanced fire safety protocols, regular inspections, and educational programs for students and staff on fire prevention and response. The focus is on creating a culture of safety within schools.
Ultimately, the goal is to submit a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations. This report will serve as a roadmap for the Kebbi State Government to implement lasting changes that safeguard its schools and the future of its students.
The government’s swift action in forming this committee demonstrates a serious commitment to addressing the school fire issue head-on, prioritizing the well-being of its young citizens and the integrity of its educational infrastructure.
