The Nigerian Navy has renovated Group School One, Igbainwari, in Opokuma, Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and support community development.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, stated this during the commissioning of the renovated school facilities, which include three blocks containing eight classrooms, a solar-powered borehole, drainage system, offices and toilet facilities.
Represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, the Naval Chief said the Navy believes that national security and development are closely linked to the wellbeing of communities.
He explained that the Special Intervention Quick Impact Scheme was designed to respond to critical community needs while promoting stronger relationships between the military and civilians.
The projects were executed by the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Ebiobowei Zipele, under the scheme initiated by the Chief of Naval Staff.
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Speaking at the event, the Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe, South-South, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, described the project as significant, saying it would improve the learning environment and educational standards in the community.
Rear Admiral Zipele said he chose the school because of his personal connection to it. He explained that his father attended the institution in 1966, while the school, established in 1913, has produced several notable people from Opokuma.
The Ibenanaowei of Opokuma Kingdom, King Aranka Botua Collins, commended the Nigerian Navy for restoring the school, while the Managing Director of Bayelsa Electricity Limited, Engineer Olice Kemenanabo, an alumnus, said the project would positively transform the institution and surrounding community.
The Headmistress, Roseline Odogwu, said the renovation had provided pupils and teachers with a more suitable environment for teaching and learning.
The ceremony featured cultural displays and traditional dances by pupils of the school in appreciation of the Navy’s intervention.
