The Nigerian Navy, on Friday, inaugurated N75 million special intervention quick projects in Modakeke, Osun.
The projects comprised the renovation of a block of six classrooms at St Stephen’s Primary School and the installation of a 10,000-litre solar-powered borehole at the Isale-Ope community in Modakeke.
The projects, executed by the Nigerian Navy Project Department, were undertaken in honour of Abel Olodude, Chief of Policy and Plans, Naval Headquarters.
In his remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, said the projects formed part of the navy’s civil-military cooperation and wider national development efforts.
Mr Abbas, represented by the Chief of Naval Transportation, Chijoke Onyemaobi, said the projects were aimed at improving education and access to potable water, as well as addressing identified community infrastructure needs and challenges.
He said such interventions addressed basic needs, including education, potable water, health and community infrastructure, while strengthening public confidence and encouraging communities to provide credible information in support of security operations nationwide.
Mr Abbas said the initiative also enabled serving admirals to contribute meaningfully to their communities, stressing that the navy’s responsibilities extended beyond security operations to supporting development and strengthening relationships with citizens.
Mr Olodude described the intervention as a comprehensive security approach designed to ensure that development reached communities while responding directly to locally identified needs and priorities.
He said the borehole was provided after consultations with community leaders, who identified water scarcity as a priority, while the school renovation was undertaken to preserve the historic status of the institution ahead of its centenary celebration in 2029.
Mr Olodude added that the school had historically provided a shared learning environment for children from Modakeke and Ile-Ife, stressing that preserving it would reinforce peace, stability and unity for future generations.
He urged the community, the Osun State Universal Basic Education Board and traditional authorities to take ownership of the facilities.
Governor Ademola Adeleke commended the navy for the projects, noting that partnerships could deliver sustainable development to communities.
Mr Adeleke, represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Segun Oyedele, an alumnus of the school, said conducive learning environments helped children discover their potential.
He said access to water improved public health and sanitation, adding that the state government supported initiatives promoting education, health and human development.
In his remarks, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Joseph Toriola, appreciated Mr Olodude for facilitating the projects, saying the school, established in 1929, was among institutions that had shaped generations within the community.
Mr Toriola said the renovated classrooms would attract more pupils, while the solar-powered borehole would provide potable water, urging residents to protect and maintain the facilities for continued community benefit.
(NAN)
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