Relief at Last as UBE Begins Renovation of Storm-Ravaged Classrooms in Ilorin Community School

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08/01/26 • 11 Views • 0 Share • Published in News

After more than two years of learning in storm-damaged buildings, students of Junior Secondary School, Banni Community in Ilorin West Local Government Area can finally look forward to safer and more conducive classrooms. The Universal Basic Education (UBE) Fund has commenced a comprehensive renovation of the school’s dilapidated structures, marking a significant turnaround in its infrastructural fortunes.

A visit to the school revealed active construction work across multiple sections, with the intervention covering classrooms from JSS 1 to JSS 3, a school hall, staff room, toilets and a borehole facility. School management confirmed that the project began on December 28 after officials received a briefing from the local authorities on the scope of the renovation.

“This renovation is a major relief for us,” the Principal, Hajia Bola Mayaki, said. “Since 2022, several of our classrooms were severely damaged by storms, forcing us to overcrowd the few usable ones. This upgrade will restore dignity to teaching and learning here.”

Persistent Infrastructure Concerns

Despite the progress, the principal expressed concern over lingering infrastructure gaps that could undermine the sustainability of the new facilities. Chief among them is the absence of a perimeter fence, which leaves the school vulnerable to encroachment, trespassing and misuse of its premises.

“The lack of fencing has turned the school into a public passageway, with cases of open defecation and illegal gatherings during holidays,” she said. She also highlighted the urgent need for an ICT laboratory and a functional library to enhance students’ learning experience.

Balancing Academics with Construction

With the renovation expected to last about a month and run into the academic term, the school plans to temporarily relocate some classes to the senior section. Engineers are also working to fast-track completion of key classrooms to minimise disruptions.

“We are committed to ensuring the academic calendar remains intact,” Hajia Mayaki assured.

Contractor Vows Quality Delivery

Project Site Manager, Architect Sulyman, confirmed that the work is progressing steadily and will be completed within schedule.

“We are using quality materials and ensuring the project is delivered to standard,” he said, noting that Sahel-Associates Ltd is handling the construction.

Earlier Federal Intervention

The principal also revealed that two classrooms had earlier been rehabilitated under a Federal Government-supported UBE project through SUBEB before the first-term break. One of the renovated classrooms will now serve as a temporary learning space pending completion of the ongoing works.

For the school community, the renovation represents a long-awaited response to the infrastructural decline affecting many public schools. However, stakeholders say sustained support is still required to fully secure and modernise the learning environment.

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