Navy renovates primary school, provides solar borehole, drainage in Bayelsa

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The Nigerian Navy on Tuesday commissioned a renovated primary school in Okpoma, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, as part of its efforts to strengthen civil-military cooperation and support community development.

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The project, executed under the Chief of Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects Scheme, was undertaken by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dipele, an indigene of the community.

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The intervention covers the renovation of three blocks of eight classrooms, staff and administrative offices, toilet facilities and other school infrastructure, as well as the construction of a drainage system and provision of a solar-powered borehole to supply potable water.

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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 Ibe Abbas, said the Navy recognised that national security and prosperity were strengthened when communities were empowered to pursue meaningful development.

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Ibrahim said the intervention was designed to address critical community needs while strengthening the relationship between the military and the people.

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He said, “Improving the quality of primary education in public schools remains one of the most potent drivers of socio-economic development. This project will facilitate a conducive atmosphere for learning.”

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According to him, the solar-powered borehole would provide potable water for pupils, teachers and residents living around the school, while the drainage system would help reduce perennial flooding in the school premises.

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He urged the beneficiaries to protect and maintain the facilities to ensure their sustainability for future generations.

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The naval representative commended Rear Admiral Dipele for identifying the educational needs of his community and using funds provided under the intervention scheme to address them.

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He said, “His vision, dedication and commitment to community development are clearly reflected in the successful execution of this project. Through this noble initiative, he has demonstrated that leadership is most meaningful when it positively impacts on the lives of others.”

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Also speaking at the event, the Navy representative described the project as part of a special quick intervention initiative launched in 2024 to strengthen the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military cooperation mandate and contribute to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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He said the initiative demonstrated that the Navy’s responsibility extended beyond securing lives and property to supporting projects that directly improve the welfare of Nigerians.

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He said the renovation was motivated by Rear Admiral Dipele’s desire to improve the standard of public primary education in his community.

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The project is expected to provide pupils with a more conducive learning environment, improve access to potable water and address flooding around the school.

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The Navy also called on residents of the community and Bayelsa State to continue supporting and cooperating with the Nigerian Navy, other branches of the Armed Forces and security agencies.

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The representative expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Government, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Council, traditional rulers, community leaders, contractors and other stakeholders for their contributions to the successful completion of the project.

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He said the Navy would continue to partner with communities across the country on initiatives capable of promoting peace, security, social cohesion and national development.

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The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior naval officers, the Commander, Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries

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