The Nigerian Army, under the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Project, has remodeled Liman Haido School and constructed a borehole in the Mafarar Asada community of Sokoto State.
Inaugurating the project in Sokoto on Thursday, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, highlighted that the intervention reflected the Army’s proactive approach to addressing the country’s security challenges through non-kinetic operations.
Lagbaja emphasised that the programme not only supports community development initiatives but also strengthens the bond between the Army and the civil populace in regions where military operations are ongoing.
“This initiative is more than symbolic; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerians and advancing their welfare,” he said.
Represented by Brig.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Sokoto, Lagbaja stated that the army’s obligations extend beyond the traditional role of securing the nation’s territorial integrity.
“Our commitment also involves nation-building and fostering goodwill among Nigeria’s diverse communities,” he added.
Lagbaja said that the intervention was introduced to support the communities of senior Nigerian Army officers who, through dedication to duty, have risen to the rank of Maj-Gen.
The army chief further described the project as a deliberate effort to ensure that it contributes to infrastructural development across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
He expressed gratitude to Maj.-Gen. Bello Tsoho, the Corps Commander of Education, as well as the elders and youths of the Mafarar Asada community for their cooperation in bringing the project to fruition.
Lagbaja also underscored the importance of the project in ensuring a better life and enhanced security for the youth of the community and its surroundings.
He thanked the people of the state for their continued support of the army and urged them to remain law-abiding while providing useful information to security agencies.
Earlier, Tsoho stated that the initiative was a testament to the Nigerian army’s commitment to societal development and strengthening military-civilian relations.
He added that the intervention’s impact was evident in the project, which would address the community’s needs by providing essential infrastructure and support.
Tsoho also expressed appreciation to the COAS for approving the execution and inauguration of the project in the community.