By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army (NA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to national development beyond its traditional security duties by commissioning a fully renovated block of three classrooms and four boreholes in Argungu, Kebbi State. The projects, executed under the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Special Intervention Programme, were designed to enhance access to quality education and clean water in the community.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the initiative was described as part of the Nigerian Army’s broader effort to foster social development, strengthen civil-military relations, and improve the welfare of host communities across the country.
The renovated block of three classrooms is located at Dankoji Nizamiyya Primary School along Kanta Road, Yardole Area, Argungu, while the four boreholes were strategically sited across the community to serve residents in different localities.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour and Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians. He described the intervention as a testament to the Army’s understanding that true security extends beyond the battlefield.
“Security is not confined to the battlefield,” the Emir said. “It rather encompasses the education, welfare, and overall progress of the communities we serve. The Nigerian Army’s intervention here today reflects its dedication to building a safer, more prosperous society for all.”
The project facilitator, Major General Ismaila Babangida Abubakar, who hails from Argungu, expressed personal satisfaction with the successful completion of the project. He explained that his motivation stemmed from a deep desire to give back to his community and support the Army’s ongoing efforts under the COAS’s leadership.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, which seeks to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated force capable of fulfilling its constitutional duties. “By investing in community well-being,” he said, “the Nigerian Army is actively contributing to a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians.”
Major General Abubakar handed over the facilities to the care of the community leaders, the Headmaster, teachers, and residents, emphasizing that the maintenance and sustainability of the projects must remain a collective responsibility.
Earlier, the project supervisor, Mr. Magaji Lawal, recalled that the block of classrooms had been in a dilapidated and abandoned state before the intervention. He noted that, upon assessment of its condition, the Chief of Army Staff approved immediate funding for the complete renovation, demonstrating his commitment to improving the welfare of citizens, particularly in communities that host Army formations and personnel.
The renovation works included a total remodeling and reconstruction of the three-classroom building, repair of 46 classroom chairs and tables, and the provision of four new pairs of tables and chairs for teachers. The water projects comprised the construction and installation of a solar-powered borehole at Gwazange community, the construction of a hand pump at Yar’Aduwa community, a motorised borehole with a power generator at Yar’Aduwa, and the resuscitation of an existing borehole with the construction of a generator house at Dankoji Nizamiyya Primary School.
The commissioning ceremony drew a distinguished audience, including traditional rulers, senior military officers, and community members. Dignitaries present were the Emir of Argungu, the Mai Biu, the Shehu of Bama, Major General M.D. Danja, Brigadier General Moses Ikobah, and Colonel Toro. Also in attendance were leaders from the beneficiary communities, teachers, and pupils of Dankoji Nizamiyya Primary School.
The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from community leaders and residents, who lauded the Nigerian Army for its people-centered initiatives and pledged to ensure proper maintenance of the newly commissioned facilities.
