By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, have commended the wives of military and police officers for their commitment to promoting quality education in the country.

They gave the commendation during the Groundbreaking and Fundraising Ceremony of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) College, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The speaker, who was represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, said there could be no better way to contribute to build the future of a teaming young Nigerians than investing in education.

He commended the leadership of DEPOWA for considering education as a priority and resolve to channel their energy towards building a school for the children of officers and personnel of the defence sector.

Abbas said it was also gratifying to note that efforts were geared towards supporting the children whose parents had dedicated their lives to the security of lives and property of the citizens.

According to him, providing access to good education is a legacy that endures for life.

“Today, DEPOWA has started a journey that will change and transform the lives of so many children.

“It is easy for those watching this ceremony to interrogate the project on the proposition that there are so many schools out there. So, why should DEPOWA embark on building new schools?

“The statistics of children in Nigeria age between five to 14 not registered in school are about 10.5 million.

“This indicates that the number of schools available to Nigerian children is still far less than the number required to go to school, including the children of the personnel of the security agencies.

“The school as proposed by DEPOWA is very elaborate and comprehensive. It is exciting that the designers have made provision for facilities that will enhance the total development of children in this school,” he said.

The speaker said the vision behind the development of the school underscored the goals of the legislative agenda of the 10th House of Representatives.

This, according to him, captures the need for access to education for the Nigerian child.

“We hold a view in the house that education is a priority, and we fully support this school project by DEPOWA,” he said.

The Minister of Defence, Badaru said the initiative embodies the unwavering commitment of the military and police families to nation-building.

He commended the association for its visionary leadership in championing the noble cause, adding that the college would serve as the beacon of hope, excellence, and opportunity for the children of the brave service members.

The minister said the college would alleviate educational burden while fostering academic excellence and moral integrity among students.

He called on all stakeholders, government agencies, corporate organisations, and public individuals to contribute generously to the project.

“A well-educated generation, nurtured in an environment of discipline and patriotism, is critical to sustaining peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.

“The Ministry of Defence stands in solidarity with the power and pledges full support to ensure the timely completion of this project,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba