By Leonard Okachie
The Nigerian Navy has renovated Union Primary School, Afaraukwu, in Umuahia North LGA of Abia, improving learning conditions for pupils.
The project featured refurbished classrooms, a new ICT suite with 28 computers, a rehabilitated borehole and reconstructed toilet facilities.
At the inauguration, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, said the initiative underscored the Navy’s commitment to community development and education.
Abbas, represented by Rear Adm. Ebiobowei Zipele, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, said the project aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained it was a Special Intervention Quick Impact Project executed by Rear Adm. Chijioke Onyemaobi, an indigene of Afaraukwu.
Abbas described the intervention as “another watershed in the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military cooperation annals”.
He said such projects provided avenues for the Navy to honour distinguished senior officers.
“It shows that beyond securing lives and property, the Navy remains committed to serving Nigerians in other meaningful ways,” he said.
Abbas commended Onyemaobi, Chief of Naval Transformation, for supporting the community and urged him to expand his humanitarian efforts.
“I appeal to the good people of this community and Abia at large to continue collaborating with the Navy and other security agencies.
“It is in keeping with the tenets of civil-military cooperation,” he said.
Onyemaobi said the intervention had brightened the community and enhanced naval awareness among residents.
He said the objective was to support access to quality education and deepen the Navy’s presence in the area.
“My reason for choosing this project is simple. The world has gone the way of technology, which is largely computer-driven.
“The earlier children are introduced to computers, the better for them and the community at large,” Onyemaobi said.
He urged the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board, teachers and staff to take ownership of the project and ensure its sustainability.
Gov. Alex Otti, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Mr Macdonald Uba, commended the Navy and Onyemaobi for attracting the project.
The governor encouraged the Navy to increase its presence in the state through similar initiatives to strengthen civil-military relations.
Highlights included the unveiling and handover of the facilities and presentation of souvenirs.
Dignitaries present included Brig.-Gen Ahmad Dikko, Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigeria Army, Ohafia, and Commodore B.U. Quadri, Commandant, Nigerian Navy College of Accounts and Finance, Owerrinta.
(NAN)
