The Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) has begun building a N10 billion boarding school in Asokoro, Abuja. The school, named DEPOWA College, aims to improve access to quality education in Nigeria.
At the foundation-laying ceremony on Tuesday, DEPOWA President and wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Mrs Oghogho Musa, said the project reflects the group’s mission to support children’s education—especially those of military and police families.
Mrs Musa explained that DEPOWA has been involved in many humanitarian efforts. These include skills training, health awareness, scholarships, and support for widows and orphans of fallen officers. The group already runs a school in Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja. However, limited space and facilities led to the need for a bigger, better boarding college.
She highlighted a worrying UNESCO report showing that Nigeria has about 20 million out-of-school children. The primary school net enrolment rate is only 64.6%. She said DEPOWA College is a direct response to this crisis.
The new school will have modern classrooms with interactive tech, ICT-enabled libraries, sports facilities, and vocational training. Students will learn skills like photography and videography.
“This project supports non-combat military efforts,” Mrs Musa said. “It will help children grow with values and skills to contribute positively to society.” She added that all architectural designs are complete, and equipment is being procured.
Chairperson of the Education Committee, Mrs Eniola Ekubi, said the college will address the unique challenges military children face—such as frequent relocations and long separations from parents.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, praised the effort. He pledged the full support of the Armed Forces. He said the school would serve as a “centre of unity” and will be open to students from all 36 states and the FCT.
Defence Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, who chaired the event, called the project a patriotic and visionary step. “Education is the bedrock of progress,” he said. “This college will be a symbol of hope and a way to honour the sacrifices of our service members.”
He also urged all individuals and organisations who pledged support to fulfill their promises quickly so the project can be completed on time.
