The University of Jos in North Central Nigeria has reassured students, parents, and the general public of improved security and a return to normal academic activities following the unrest of March 29th in Angwan Rukuba, which houses many university staff and community members.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, described the incident as deeply saddening but emphasised that the institution remained resilient and committed to safeguarding its community.
“Let me state clearly that since the beginning of the crisis, no single breach of the peace was recorded on any of our campuses.
“At no time during the unrest did Management direct that the University should be closed or totally evacuated by both staff and students,” the vice-chancellor said.
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The unrest of March 29 prompted the Plateau State Government to impose a 48-hour curfew across Jos North Local Government Area, disrupting ongoing first-semester examinations.
In response, the University rescheduled examinations and implemented measures to protect students, including transportation support during the Easter break. However, the Vice-Chancellor noted that external evacuation efforts created unintended panic.
“While not faulting the intentions of those who sent buses, the process became counterproductive and heightened fears about campus safety. Despite the challenges, the University confirmed that academic activities resumed on April 7, with examinations set to begin on April 13 to accommodate students who travelled,” he stated.
Prof. Ishaya stated that collaboration with national and state agencies, including the military and police, has significantly reinforced security.
“Campus security has significantly improved as we speak. “I want to stress that throughout the period of the crisis, the university was not closed. As you can see, normal activities resumed after the Easter break. The University remains a top priority on the security list of relevant authorities. I want to assure students and parents that Security has been beefed up on campus along the roads leading to the University and the entire city of Jos,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to government officials, security agencies, and local communities for their swift intervention and ongoing support.
“On Tuesday, 7th April 2026, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Major General EF Oyinlola, also visited the University on a confidence-building engagement where he stated that the University is a top priority on its security list. The University has greatly enhanced campus security. I want to make it clear that throughout the period of the crises, the University was not closed. There are no plans to relocate the University somewhere else. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the university continues to move forward despite the challenges,” he said.