The quiet riverine community of Egweama in Bayelsa State came alive on Tuesday as pupils from several primary schools gathered in excitement to receive educational materials from the Nigerian Navy in a gesture that combined learning, mentorship and community service.
The outreach programme was organised by Nigerian Navy through the Forward Operating Base FORMOSO as part of activities commemorating the Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration.
The educational intervention reached hundreds of pupils drawn from St. Mathew School 1 and 2 Egweama, Community Primary School Amugbo, Migrant Fisherman’s Children School Egweama, Migrant Fisherman’s School Egeregere, St. Philip School and God Powered National Academy Egweama.
Pupils lined up with excitement as exercise books, writing materials and other learning items were distributed across the benefiting schools in the riverine community.
The initiative, according to naval authorities, was designed to promote education, encourage academic excellence and deepen the relationship between the Nigerian Navy and its host communities.
Addressing the pupils during the event, the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Captain SK Haruna, urged the children to remain focused on their education and embrace discipline as a pathway to a better future.
He reminded the pupils that education remained one of the strongest foundations for personal growth and national development.
“Knowledge is power, and with it comes great responsibility,” Haruna told the pupils while encouraging them to remain committed to learning and good character.
The naval chief also warned the children against drug abuse and other social vices, urging them to avoid negative influences capable of destroying their future ambitions.
He referenced the ongoing campaign by Naval Headquarters against drug and substance abuse, stressing that the Nigerian Navy strongly condemns such acts and would continue to promote moral values among young Nigerians.
Haruna further commended the Egweama community for maintaining peace and sustaining cordial relations with the Nigerian Navy, particularly during activities marking the Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to prioritise quality education and proper upbringing for their children in order to secure a brighter future for the community.
The event ended on an emotional note as teachers, community leaders and pupils expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for what they described as a thoughtful and impactful intervention that demonstrated the service’s commitment to humanity beyond maritime security.
