Pix: Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla,
The Nigerian Navy in Koluama, Southern Ijaw local government area of Bayelsa state, has distributed educational materials to more than 150 students of Government Secondary School, Fishtown.
Commanding Officer, Naval Outpost, Koluama II, Cdr Stephen Agwai, said that the initiative aimed to promote cooperation between the Navy and the civil populace.
The items distributed were exercise books, calculators, mathematical sets and other writing materials.
Agwai said: “Today marks a special occasion as we gather not only to celebrate education but also to underscore the importance of nurturing young minds and empowering future leaders.
“Education is not just about classrooms and textbooks; it is about fostering curiosity, igniting passion, and opening doors of opportunities.
“As we are all aware, education is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society.
“It empowers individuals, transforms communities, and opens doors of opportunity that would otherwise remain closed. By investing in education, we invest in the future of our nation.
“So, the NN and indeed NOP KOLUAMA II recognize the pivotal role that education plays in national security and sustainable development.
“Through initiatives like today’s education rhapsody, we aim to enhance educational outcomes, promote academic excellence, and cultivate a culture of learning that transcends borders.”
He said through the Navy’s non-kinetic line of operations and civil-military relations, the Force and indeed NOP KOLUAMA II had come with a mission to enrich the student’s learning environment and support their educational journey.
Agwai stated: “We bring with us teaching aids, books, and writing materials that we hope will inspire you to reach for the stars and achieve your dreams.
“But our mission extends beyond the tangible. Today, we will also share with our students insights into a career that is close to our hearts, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and in particular the Nigerian Navy.
“We will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Navy in safeguarding our waters, protecting our shores, and contributing to national security.
“More importantly, we will explore how each of you, as young Nigerians, can contribute to our nation’s prosperity and well-being.”
The Commanding Officer said that as the Navy embarked on this education rhapsody together, let us remember that knowledge is power, and with it comes great responsibility.
He added: “Each of you has the potential to make a difference not just in your own lives but in the lives of those around you and in the future of our great nation.
“So, let us seize this opportunity to learn, grow, and inspire one another. Let us embrace the gift of education and let it be a beacon of hope and progress in our lives.
“Thank you once again for welcoming us into your school community. Let us make today a stepping stone towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”
On his part, the community leader, Chief Bemo Tari, commended the Nigerian Navy for the free educational material to the school, appealing to other organisations to emulate the Navy.