By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Nigerian Navy on Tuesday, commissioned a renovated primary school in Okpoma, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military cooperation and support community development.
The project was executed under the Chief of Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects Scheme by Rear Admiral E.A. Zipele, an indigene of the community.
The intervention included the renovation of three blocks of eight classrooms, staff and administrative offices, toilet facilities and other school infrastructure. It also featured the construction of a drainage system and installation of a solar-powered borehole to provide potable water.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral S.D. Ibrahim, who represented the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the Navy recognised that national security and prosperity were strengthened when communities were empowered to pursue meaningful development.
Ibrahim said the intervention was designed to address critical community needs while strengthening the relationship between the military and the people.
He said improving primary education remained a key driver of socio-economic development, adding that the renovated facilities would provide a more conducive learning environment.
According to him, the solar-powered borehole would provide potable water for pupils, teachers and nearby residents, while the drainage system would help reduce flooding within the school premises.
He urged beneficiaries to protect and maintain the facilities to ensure their sustainability.
Ibrahim commended Zipele for identifying the educational needs of his community and using funds provided under the intervention scheme to address them.
He said the special quick intervention initiative, launched in 2024, was aimed at strengthening the Navy’s civil-military cooperation mandate and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Navy also called on residents of Bayelsa State to continue supporting and cooperating with the armed forces and other security agencies.
The commissioning was attended by senior naval officers, the Commander, Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries.
