ABUJA, Nigeria – In a move aimed at supporting the families of its security forces, Nigeria has officially broken ground on the DEPOWA College, a new educational institution spearheaded by the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA). The initiative highlights the crucial role these families play in national security and the government’s commitment to their well-being.
The foundation stone was laid at a ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, attended by Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other high-ranking officials. The project underscores a growing recognition globally of the need to provide comprehensive support to military and police personnel and their dependents.
Minister Badaru praised DEPOWA’s leadership for its vision in addressing the educational needs of military and police families. “This initiative embodies the resilience and compassion of our military and police families,” he stated. “We are planting seeds for a brighter, more secure Nigeria.”
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General Musa emphasized the strategic importance of the project as an investment in human capital development. He highlighted the need to provide a stable and high-quality learning environment for the children of service members, which can enhance morale and contribute to operational effectiveness.
DEPOWA President Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, wife of the CDS, explained that the new boarding school is a response to the overwhelming demand for educational opportunities and the broader challenge of out-of-school children in Nigeria. The college will feature modern facilities, including ICT-enabled libraries and skill acquisition centers, aiming to provide a holistic education.
The ₦10 billion (approximately $6.5 million USD) project seeks to address a critical need within the Nigerian security forces community. With Nigeria facing ongoing security challenges, including insurgency and banditry, supporting the families of those on the front lines is seen as essential for maintaining morale and operational readiness.
The initiative also reflects a broader trend in developing nations of prioritizing education as a tool for social and economic development. The DEPOWA College aims to become a model institution, fostering patriotism, academic excellence, and a commitment to national service.
The groundbreaking ceremony drew significant support from both the public and private sectors, with pledges made to help bridge any funding gaps. The project has garnered support from First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, highlighting its national significance.
The DEPOWA College represents a significant step towards ensuring that the children of those who serve in Nigeria’s defence and police forces have access to quality education, contributing to a more secure and prosperous future for the nation.
