04/07/2026
SPEECH TO BE DELIVERED AT THE GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A MODERN LIBRARY AT MODEL BASIC EDUCATION SCHOOL, SABON AFAKA BY THE AFAKA COMMUNITY (TAC)
Protocols
It is with immense gratitude to Almighty God that I stand before you today on behalf of The Afaka Community (TAC) at this historic groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a Modern Library at Model Basic Education School, Sabon Afaka.
Today marks another important milestone in our collective commitment to education, community development, and the empowerment of future generations. This project is not merely about erecting a building; it is about building minds, inspiring dreams, and creating opportunities for our children to compete successfully in an increasingly knowledge driven world.
A library is the heart of every great educational institution. It is a place where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is developed, and knowledge is acquired. Through this modern library, we aim to provide our pupils and students with access to quality learning resources that will strengthen their academic performance and prepare them for the challenges of the future.
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, this project reflects the vision and unwavering commitment of The Afaka Community (TAC) towards sustainable community development. Over the years, we have remained dedicated to improving the lives of our people through impactful interventions in healthcare, education, and peacebuilding.
In the area of Healthcare, The Afaka Community has successfully organized and supported several life changing initiatives, including:
- A Free Medical Outreach in 2017 in collaboration with the Nigerian Defence Academy, benefiting over 1,000 residents.
- A Free Eye Screening, medication, and distribution of medical glasses in collaboration with the National Eye Centre Kaduna, benefiting over 200 people.
- A Free Eye Screening and Cataract Surgery Programme in collaboration with the International Islamic Relief Organization, restoring hope to over 100 beneficiaries.
- Another Community Free Medical Outreach organized by The Afaka Community, benefiting over 1,000 people.
In the area of Education, which remains one of our highest priorities, we have continued to invest in the future of our children through:
- Organizing refresher courses for out of school children to reintegrate them into formal education while preparing secondary school students for higher institutions.
- Awarding scholarships to less privileged students in tertiary institutions within our community.
- Implementing a Female Adult Education Programme through which over 100 women acquired literacy skills, with many progressing to higher institutions.
- Sponsoring the payment of WAEC and NECO examination fees for at least 50 students annually.
- Organizing regular student orientation programmes aimed at promoting academic excellence and positive values.
- Running an Annual Orphans Scholarship Programme in collaboration with private schools within the community, which has grown from 250 beneficiaries to over 500 orphaned students.
- Successfully leading the struggle to recover the land belonging to Government Secondary School, Sabon Afaka, which was subsequently fenced by the government, thereby providing a safer and more conducive learning environment for both teachers and students.
Beyond healthcare and education, we have remained committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, recognizing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.
Among our notable peacebuilding efforts include:
- Successfully mediating and resolving the conflict between the youths of Mahuta and Afaka, thereby restoring harmony within our communities.
- Organizing a peace dialogue between the Northern Igbo Community and the Hausa Community at the Palace of the Sarkin Afaka, strengthening unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all residents.
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- SPORT DEVELOPMENT
1. The Afaka Community (TAC) organizes the Late Sarki Musa Umar Memorial Football Tournament, an annual competition that brings together teams from across the community to promote youth development, unity, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
2. The Afaka Community (TAC) also organized a Community Marathon, which attracted the participation of over 70 athletes and residents, encouraging physical fitness, community engagement, and healthy living.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today's groundbreaking ceremony is therefore a continuation of this noble journey. We firmly believe that investment in education remains one of the greatest investments any community can make. The modern library we are commencing today will serve generations of students, teachers, researchers, and the wider community for many years to come.
This achievement would not have been possible without the support, cooperation, and sacrifices of our traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, educational authorities, community stakeholders, development partners, and every member of The Afaka Community. We sincerely appreciate your trust and commitment to our shared vision.
As construction begins today, I respectfully call on well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations, philanthropists, alumni associations, government agencies, and development partners to join hands with us in ensuring the successful completion and equipping of this modern library with books, computers, internet facilities, digital learning resources, and modern furniture.
Together, we can create a centre of excellence that will transform education in Sabon Afaka and beyond.
To our students, this library belongs to you. Make the best use of it. Read widely, study diligently, respect your teachers, and become responsible citizens who will contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, let us continue to work together in unity, peace, and mutual understanding for the growth and development of Afaka Community. May this project become a lasting symbol of hope, knowledge, and progress.
On behalf of The Afaka Community (TAC), I thank you all for honouring our invitation and for your continued support.
May Almighty God bless The Afaka Community.
May Almighty God bless Kaduna State.
May Almighty God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you all, and God bless you.