Maimuna O. Yusuf
Senator Natasha H Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central senatorial district, on Sunday, flagged off the construction of new schools in Osara for the Hausa/Fulani community.
She equally flagged off the reconstruction and remodeling of Abdul Azeez Atta Memorial College, Okene (AAAMCO).
The senator mentioned that the reconstruction and remodeling of AAAMCO aims to elevate the school to one of the most advanced secondary schools in Nigeria.
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The reconstruction project includes the complete renovation and upgrade of all deteriorated structures within the school. It also involves the construction of new facilities such as a Biology laboratory, Agronomy laboratory, Mechatronics laboratory, CBT centre, amphitheatre, music studio, art and craft studio, staff quartres, sports centre, as well as the provision of furniture and equipment for all the new facilities.
Additionally, a 0.7 km road network within the school premises, perimeter fencing, streetlights, water supply, and total rehabilitation of the hostels are part of the project. The school will also be upgraded to a smart school with electrified classrooms and digital learning devices for every student.
AAAMCO is one of the first secondary schools in Northern Nigeria established in 1927 as the Central School Okene before changing its name to Provincial Secondary School Okene, after which it became Government Secondary School Okene and lastly AAAMCO.
This institution schools President Ibrahim Babangida, Professor Jerry Gana, Professor Lai Mohammed, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe amongst many notable alumni.
According to her, the reconstruction and the remodelling was approved by the federal government.
“Education is extremely important. I wouldn’t have been here if there was no school for my father to acquire an education and give me the best education I have.
She added that similar attention would be given to other schools in the senatorial district, promising to remodel them into smart schools.
In same vein, the senator said the flag off of primary and secondary schools in Osara for Hausa/Fulani community is a fulfilment of her campaign promises to them and an answer to their request when they met with her before the 2023 senatorial election.
Once completed, the new schools in Osara will include blocks for primary and secondary schools, administrative buildings, libraries and laboratories, staff quarters, a clinic, sports facilities, and boreholes.
Speaking on behalf of Hausa/Fulani community, the Youth leader, Miyetti Allah Kogi State chapter, Dr Nuhu Abubakar Jalido, said the gesture is an opportunity for Hausa/Fulani children to have access to quality education at their doorstep.
“This is the first time a senator in Kogi is building primary and secondary schools with the necessary facilities in a Hausa/Fulani camp. Your actions show you are different. This will change our people’s ideology and enable them to acquire quality education and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development,” he said.
