Zamfara Gov’t lauds NAF as Aneke unveils GSS Shinkafi computer lab

Zamfara Gov’t lauds NAF as Aneke unveils GSS Shinkafi computer lab

By Sadiq Martins, Gusau

Gov. Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for it’s commitment to national security and socio-economic wellbeing of Nigerians.

Lawal spoke at the unveiling of a Computer Laboratory donated by AVM Ahmad Shinkafi, to the Government Science Secondary school Shinkafi, on Wednesday.

The project is executed under the Chief of Air Staff Special Intervention Project by Shinkafi, Director-General, Nigerian Air Force Research Institute.
Lawal, represented by the state Deputy Governor, Mani Mumuni, expressed delight over the initiative of the NAF.

“I am excited to see the CAS extends the NAF interventions to one of our communities in honour of an illustrious son of our dear state.

“The provision of a fully equipped computer laboratory for this school is a shining example of collaboration and partnership that can transform the lives of our citizens.
“We are indeed thankful to the chief of the air staff and the NAF for this kind gesture, Lawal said.

According to him, the project aligns with my administration’s ‘Rescue Agenda’, which aims to bring modern amenities and development down to the grass roots to improve conducive learning environment and the standard of living all citizens of Zamfara.

“I am confident that, this project will have lasting positive impact on the lives of our young citizens.

“This initiative showcases the NAF commitment to civil-military co-operation, which not only fosters trust between the air force and our communities, but also contributes to national development.

“Furthermore, it is important to note that, the present government is executing many developmental projects, that have direct impact on the people of Shinkafi Local Government and the state at large.”

The governor commended the project initiator for his selfless service to the nation as well as his commitment to the well-being of the community he hailed from.

He said that his action would encourage many young citizens of Zamfara to aspire to follow his footsteps.

“I urge the good people of Shinkafi town and Zamfara at large to make the most of this laudable initiative.

“We shall continue to partner with the NAF and other security agencies to address the challenges facing our state, our region and our dear nation, Nigeria,” Lawal said.
In his remarks, the CAS said the project was part of efforts to promote education and strengthen civil-military relations.

Aneke, represented by AVM UK Abdullahi, Deputy Commander, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), said the intervention was designed to strengthen relations between the service and host communities through initiatives intended to address their developmental needs.

He explained that civil-military relations remained an important component of the air force non-kinetic operations, aimed at building public trust, winning the hearts and minds of citizens, and encouraging cooperation between the military and the communities it serves.

According to him, the NAF has continued to implement special intervention projects in selected communities in honour of senior officers from those areas, thereby maintaining their connections with their roots while contributing to national development.

He revealed that more than 21 projects had been inaugurated under the scheme since its introduction, with several others ongoing across the country.

The air chief noted that feedback from beneficiary communities indicated that the projects had helped improve relations between the force and residents.

He commended the project initiator for choosing a computer laboratory as his intervention project, expressing confidence that the facility would contribute to improving educational opportunities and the general well-being of the community.

He urged the school management, students and residents of Shinkafi Local Government Area to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the facility for the benefit of present and future generations.

He also called on residents to sustain peaceful coexistence and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence to support ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the country.

Aneke reaffirmed the NAF commitment, alongside other military services and security agencies, to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and tackling security threats through effective air operation.

In his remarks, the Commander, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), Maj.-Gen. WB Idris said that the project was an investment in knowledge, opportunity and, most importantly, the future of our young people.

“This fully equipped computer laboratory opens a new window of opportunity for the students of this school.

“In today’s world, digital knowledge is no longer a luxury; it is an essential part of modern education.

“This facility will support learning and research, develop practical computer skills and inspire young minds to explore science, technology and innovation.

“For a student with limited access to technology, this laboratory can mark the beginning of a remarkable journey,” he said.

He added that the laboratory would help a student in discovering their interest, develop a skill or begin to imagine possibilities that once seemed beyond reach.

“AVM Shinkafi has enjoyed a distinguished career in service. His achievements remain a source of pride to his community and the state.

“It is therefore fitting that he is honoured through an initiative dedicated to education, technology and the development of young minds.
“To the students, I say make this opportunity count.

Learn, explore, ask questions, acquire new skills and dream beyond your present circumstances.

“Your future is not defined by where you start, but by what you make of the opportunities before you,” he said.

According to the commander, the Armed Forces understand that security and development are mutually reinforcing.

“Our responsibility is to defend the nation, protect our citizens and help create an environment for peaceful coexistence among communities.”

Earlier, the School Principal, Malam Lawal Usman expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for executing the project.

Usman said that the project remained a significant contribution to digital education, research and innovation.

He described Shinkafi as a role model for students, expressing hope that the facility would inspire them to pursue excellence in science, technology and other fields.

He said the computer laboratory would provide students with opportunities to develop practical computer skills, conduct research and connect with learning resources from across the world.

He commended the Nigerian Air Force project team, led by Grp-Capt. PA Ogba, Commander 207 Quick Response Group, Nigeria Air Force (NAF) for the diligent work.

Meanwhile the project initiator has thanked the CAS for the project and pledged to continue to contribute to his community and humanity at large.

He commended the Nigerian Air Force for recognising his contribution and for honoring him through the project.

The Nigeria Air Force also carried out a medical outreach with hundreds of residents benefiting, while Shinkafi distributed 500 bags of 10kg Rice as support to families.END