Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Public School Buildings in Taraba State

Although Nigeria is generally considered a low-to-moderate seismic hazard region, certain northern and eastern states including Taraba experience minor to moderate tremors that can cause disproportionate damage to poorly designed structures. This study assesses the seismic vulnerability of thirty public primary school buildings in Taraba State within the North East geopolitical zone, utilising a rapid visual screening methodology adapted from FEMA P-154 and calibrated to Nigerian construction typologies. Each building was evaluated across eleven vulnerability parameters, including plan irregularity, soft storey presence, short-column conditions, and diaphragm continuity. Construction records, where available, were reviewed to determine original design basis and reinforcement detailing. Scores were aggregated to generate a structural vulnerability index for each building. Findings indicate that twenty-three of the thirty assessed schools scored in the high vulnerability range, primarily due to the prevalence of unreinforced masonry construction, absence of seismic detailing in column-beam connections, and irregular plan geometries introduced by ad hoc classroom extensions. The study estimates potential collapse probabilities under a design basis earthquake of 0.06g, classified as low-level ground motion, at thirty-eight percent for the most vulnerable school typology. The research advocates for a national school safety programme incorporating seismic retrofitting requirements, revised school building guidelines under the Universal Basic Education Commission, and awareness training for state-level engineers. Keywords: seismic vulnerability, school buildings, Taraba State, rapid visual screening, unreinforced masonry.