By Amos Aar
THE CHIEF of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has inaugurated a set of civil-military cooperation projects in Otampe Oklenyi Community, Okpokwu LGA of Benue State.
The projects, comprising a newly constructed block of three classrooms with a staff room, and the renovation of five classrooms with a sanitary facility, were commissioned on Tuesday at Otampe Oklenyi Primary School, Okpoga.
Vice Admiral Abbas, represented by the Command Operations Officer of the Nigerian Navy Special Operations Command, Commodore Maksum Mohammed, said the intervention was executed under the CNS Special Intervention Quick Impact Project Scheme in honour of Rear Admiral Robert Obeya.
He further explained that the Quick Impact Project, initiated in 2024, reflects the Navy’s commitment to improving the welfare of local communities nationwide.
Abbas noted the importance of civil-military cooperation in promoting mutual understanding and supporting shared national goals.
“These projects are a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to serving the interests of Nigerians beyond our primary role of securing lives and property,” he said, adding that the effort aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode, who was represented by Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, commended Rear Admiral Obeya and the Nigerian Navy for their contribution to the development of Otampe Oklenyi.
He said the school upgrades would have a lasting impact on the children of the community by creating a more conducive learning environment.
“Our children now have the opportunity to learn in a more comfortable and conducive environment. This is a priceless gift, and we must all work together to ensure its sustainability,” Ode stated.
He also applauded Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration for supporting the initiative and reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving learning infrastructure across rural communities.
In his welcome address, Rear Admiral Obeya expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the growth of his community. He acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Navy, local authorities, and the Benue State Government in actualising the projects.
Obeya also pledged to continue assisting the community through more interventions. “The completion of this project is just the beginning. In the coming months and years, I intend to sponsor more projects in this community, including the provision of water, electricity, and other essential services that will improve the lives of the people,” he said.
He urged the community to maintain the facilities responsibly for the benefit of future generations and emphasised education as a key tool for empowerment.
In a goodwill message, the Och’ Okpoga, Joseph Agbo, also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy and Obeya, describing the gesture as a demonstration of true service to humanity.
