In continuation of the mass rollout of projects as part of the Third Year Anniversary of Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike’s administration , the Rivers State Government on Wednesday commissioned the re-modelled Birabi Memorial Grammar School , Bori in Khana Local Government Area.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike stated that his administration resolved to intervene in the remodelling and reconstruction of Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori because it is a flagship school in Ogoniland.
He said: “Most people forget easily where we are coming from. This school was completely damaged and all the facilities degraded. I pledged to the Ogoni people during our campaigns that I will reconstruct this school and make it a boarding facility. Today, we have achieved that goal.
“I also promised that that we will construct and dualise the Sakpenwa-Bori Road. As you can see, the dualisation is almost completed and streetlights adorn the road “.
He said that the Amaechi administration in the spirit of demolition, demolished several schools without rebuilding them. He said that the failed Amaechi administration planned to demolish Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori, but was resisted by Ogoni leaders.
“We have rebuilt several of the schools demolished and abandoned by the Amaechi administration. Who will not want to study in a beautiful environment like this? We keep our promises and we don’t give excuses “, he said.
The governor charged Nigerians to hold leaders accountable and ensure that they honour their pledges.
Governor Wike said that the Sakpenwa-Bori Road constructed by his administration has improved the economy of the area, while Ogoni children will now have the opportunity of attending good schools.
He directed the immediate reconstruction of Mana High School, Bane and Etche Girls Secondary School in Etche Local Government Area.
Commissioning the remodelled Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori, Sokoto State Governor, Rt Hon Aminu Tambuwal said that even as far back as 2007, the school had degenerated beyond measures.
He expressed happiness that Providence has made it possible for him to return 11 years after to commission the school which has been upgraded to acceptable international standards .
He said: “I can see why Ogoniland is getting calmer and calmer. There is progress and development”.
While urging Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike to sustain his investments in the education sector, Governor Tambuwal urged other governors to emulate the Rivers State Governor.
Rivers State Education Commissioner, Dr Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja in a project description, noted that new hostels, modern classrooms, auditorium, laboratories, libraries and information and communication technology facilities have been put in place by the Wike administration in the school.
He said at the time Governor Wike inherited the institution, it was at an time low, with no seats for students , while majority of the classrooms had collapsed.
Son of Paul Birabi, the founder of the school, Senator Bennett Birabi commended Governor Wike for transforming the school. He said though he didn’t support the Rivers State Governor during the 2015 election , Governor Wike fulfilled his promise to the Ogoni people..
Sports Prefect of Birabi Memorial Grammar School in 1973, Chief Godwin Nwiko said all old students of the school are happy with the Rivers State Governor for transforming their school . He declared that they will support his re-election.
Students of Birabi Memorial Grammar in appreciation of the efforts of Governor Wike, made special presentation at the event. Ogoni traditional rulers also presented gifts to Governor Wike.
