By Uko Etim

UYO—Forward Operating Base IBAKA has donated 35 two-seater classroom desks and chairs to Community Secondary School Ibaka as part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary.

The educational outreach aimed to support learning facilities in the host community and strengthen civil-military relations in the Mbo Local Government Area.

The Commanding Officer, FOB Ibaka, Navy Captain Adebowale Omotosho, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Uyo, presented the desks to the school during a brief ceremony attended by students, staff, and community leaders.

Speaking at the event, Capt. Omotosho said the donation was part of the Base’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives in line with directives from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas

“The Nigerian Navy remains committed to supporting host communities and promoting educational advancement as part of the Navy at 70 celebrations,” he stated.

Omotosho also commended Ibaka community for peaceful coexistence and continued support for the Base, noting that the collaboration has enhanced security and stability within the Base’s Area of Operations.

Principal of Community Secondary School Ibaka, Mr Andu Bassey Paul, who also represented the Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Secondary Education Board, thanked the Navy for the intervention and other projects extended to the community over the years.

He appealed for sustained support, saying the community has continued to benefit immensely from FOB Ibaka’s goodwill.

The event featured the unveiling of the desks, presentation of a souvenir to the Principal by the CO, goodwill messages, and votes of thanks by PTA Chairman Mr Joseph Okon Inyang and Head Girl Miss Best Okon Abang.

In attendance were the CO and his entourage, community elders, PTA officials, teachers, and students.