Excitement and celebration filled Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area, as the Nigerian Army distributed educational materials to pupils and staff of Ogwumabiri Primary School.

The outreach included the donation of school bags and exercise books aimed at supporting learning and encouraging academic development among pupils.

Speaking during the presentation, Brigadier-General S. A. Jimoh, representing the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Oluremi Fadairo, said the initiative was designed to strengthen civil-military relations while promoting education.

“This gesture reflects the Army’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging among communities and inspiring young learners to pursue academic excellence,” he said, adding that education is a “legacy and a strong tool for social engineering, economic well-being, and positive development.”

Jimoh urged pupils and teachers to make effective use of the materials to improve academic performance and reassured the community of the Army’s continued commitment to safety and security, not only for the school but for the wider community and state.

Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, emphasized the importance of peace in achieving sustainable development. She described children as “the future of society” and encouraged residents who had previously left the area due to insecurity to return, noting that peace is gradually being restored.

Receiving the donations, Head Teacher Mrs. Grace Nnubia thanked the Nigerian Army and pledged that the school would make good use of the materials to maintain high academic standards. Pupils celebrated the support, while community members commended the Army for restoring normalcy and revitalizing social activities in the once-quiet area.

The outreach programme saw the participation of several military officers, including Colonel Madaki Yakubu, Commander of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support), Onitsha, alongside other senior officers from the 82 Division.