Evaluation of the Structural Integrity of School Building Blocks in Selected Secondary Schools in Sokoto State

The structural condition of public secondary school buildings in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria, is a critical concern for student safety, as many structures were constructed during the Universal Basic Education expansion of the early 2000s with limited engineering supervision. This study evaluates the structural integrity of classroom block buildings in ten public secondary schools in Sokoto metropolis. Visual structural inspection using a modified facility condition assessment checklist was conducted on 48 classroom blocks. Rebound hammer testing was applied to 30 reinforced concrete columns and beams per building to estimate in-situ concrete strength. Crack patterns were mapped and classified by severity. Moisture ingress and reinforcement cover were assessed in selected locations. Results indicate that 54 percent of assessed blocks show significant structural distress, including column cracking, spalling, and rebar exposure. Rebound hammer strength estimates below 15 N/mm2 were recorded in 38 percent of tested columns. Wall cracking due to differential settlement was observed in 66 percent of buildings. Roof leakage causing moisture damage was present in 72 percent of assessed blocks. Only 4 of 48 buildings show acceptable structural condition. The study concludes that the majority of assessed school buildings require immediate repair or reconstruction and recommends a state-wide structural assessment programme under the Sokoto State Universal Basic Education Board, with priority given to buildings exceeding 15 years of age.

Keywords: structural integrity, school buildings, condition assessment, Sokoto State, North West Nigeria