Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times
The Nigerian Army, through its Headquarters, has commissioned a fully renovated and furnished Pilot Primary School, along with newly constructed toilets and a solar-powered borehole in Danja Local Government, Katsina State.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Major General Mohamed Dahiru Danja, the sponsor of the project, emphasized the critical need for improved learning environments in Katsina State. He noted that with over 3,000 primary schools in the state, many require urgent repairs, placing a significant burden on the government.
"This project was conceived in December 2024, and work commenced immediately," he stated. "Initially, it involved the renovation and furnishing of the school, as well as the construction of toilets. However, after considering the water scarcity challenges in the area and the importance of clean water for pupils, we included a solar-powered borehole in the project."
The renovation encompassed a complete re-roofing of the school, installation of new ceilings, and the provision of 100 new desks and seats made from high-quality marine board. Additionally, 76 previously damaged seats were repaired. New staff furniture and dual-purpose writing boards were also installed in all classrooms.
To enhance hygiene standards, five new toilets were constructed for both pupils and staff. The solar-powered borehole, a key component of the project, features a 10,000-liter storage capacity supported by two 5,000-liter overhead GP tanks. The borehole operates independently of electricity, powered solely by four 250-amp solar panels.
While addressing the headmaster and staff, Major General Danja issued a strict directive against the commercialization of the borehole. "This facility is for the use of pupils and can be extended to the nearby community on designated days, but under no circumstances should money be collected for water. Any violation will attract serious sanctions," he warned.
A caretaker has been appointed to oversee the borehole’s maintenance, including water pumping and security.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Army, and the General Officer Commanding the 8th Division.
The initiative aligns with the Army’s commitment to supporting local communities and enhancing educational infrastructure. Major General Mohamed Dahiru expressed hope that the project would significantly improve learning conditions for pupils at Pilot Primary School and serve as a model for similar interventions in other parts of the state.
