Kontagora: The Nigerian Army has commenced construction of Command Day Secondary School in Kontagora Military Cantonment in Niger. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, inaugurated the construction of the school in Kontagora military cantonment on Tuesday. Oluyede was represented at the occasion by Maj.-Gen. John Sokoya, Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the establishment of the secondary school was a key component of Oluyede’s command philosophy, which prioritises the welfare of troops and their families. The absence of a secondary school in the cantonment had been challenging for the smooth transition of pupils from primary to secondary education. The new secondary school aims to provide access to quality education for the children of military personnel and the host community.
The COAS stated that the project would boost the morale of troops, knowing that their welfare and that of their families is given priority. He added, “The school will serve as a hub for community engagement, promoting peaceful coexistence between the military and the host community.” The Nigerian army remains committed to providing quality education for children.
Maj.-Gen. Zakari Abubakar, Commander Corps of Artillery, provided further insights during his welcome address. He noted that upon assuming duty, a gap in the educational system for wards in the cantonment was observed. Since the establishment of the barrack, it has lacked a secondary school. The only educational facilities available within the cantonment have been the Army Children School established in 1973 and the Vulcan Nursery and Primary School established in 1995. With yearly enrolments from the barracks and host community numbering over 1,000 pupils, the transition from primary to secondary school posed a significant challenge.
Abubakar highlighted that following a needs assessment, the lack of a secondary school was identified as a challenge to the wards of personnel and has affected the morale of the troops. He commended the COAS for approving the establishment of the school, stating that this gesture would bridge the educational transition gap.