The Sokoto State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, has inaugurated the newly renovated Magajin Rafi Model Primary School, Tudun-Wada, Sokoto, as part of efforts to strengthen basic education and deepen civil–military cooperation.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who was represented at the event by his deputy, Dr Idris Gobir on Saturday, described primary education as the foundation upon which every successful career is built, urging pupils to take their studies seriously and aspire to greatness.
Gobir noted that Magajin Rafi Primary School has a rich legacy of producing prominent Nigerians across sectors, including senior military officers, politicians, technocrats and community leaders.
“This school is blessed by Almighty Allah. It has produced governors, senior military officers, correctional officers and public servants at federal, state and local government levels. Even the Executive Governor of Sokoto State is a proud product of this school,” he said.
The deputy governor commended Major General Abbas Idris, the project executor and an alumnus of the school, for giving back to his roots and contributing meaningfully to the development of Sokoto State.
He assured all that the state government would continue to partner with individuals and institutions committed to educational development.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Paul Koughna, said the project was executed under the COAS Special Intervention Civil–Military Cooperation Scheme.
According to him, the Nigerian Army has so far executed and commissioned over 250 similar projects across the six geopolitical zones of the country, including schools, hospitals, laboratories and community facilities.
“The Nigerian Army is a people’s army. Beyond kinetic operations, we remain committed to non-kinetic engagements that promote community development and strengthen public trust,” he stated.
Koughna added that the renovated classrooms, administrative blocks and storage facilities would complement government efforts at providing quality education in the area, while urging the community and school authorities to take ownership of the facilities.
In his remarks, Major General Abbas Idris said the project was inspired by his personal experience as a former pupil of the school and his desire to ensure that children learn in a safe, modern and conducive environment.
“This is not just a renovation project; it is an investment in the dreams of our children. Every classroom is a message that their future matters,” he said.
Established in 1935, Magajin Rafi Primary School is one of the oldest schools in Sokoto State and has produced generations of professionals, including governors, ministers, military officers, medical doctors, engineers and traditional rulers.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, senior military officers, community leaders, alumni, pupils and members of the press.
