The LEA Primary School Makanima in Abuja Municipal Area Council is on the verge of collapse, three years after a violent windstorm ripped off its roof. The school's infrastructure has been left in a deplorable state, with cracked walls, collapsed ceilings, broken desks and chairs, and overgrown weeds.
Causes of the School's Decline
- *Neglect by FCT Administration*: Despite receiving multi-billion Naira UBEC funds, the FCT administration has failed to repair and maintain the school's infrastructure.
- *Lack of Functional Classrooms*: Hundreds of pupils have stopped attending school, while those who remain are forced to learn under trees or in overcrowded classrooms.
- *Demoralized Teachers*: Teachers are frustrated and demoralized due to the lack of proper classrooms and resources.
Consequences of Neglect
- *Limited Access to Education*: The school's condition has made education a luxury rather than a right for many children.
- *Impact on Pupils' Future*: The neglect of the school's infrastructure may crush the dreams of pupils who aspire to become doctors, engineers, and other professionals.
- *Comparison to Other Schools*: Children in Makanima are disadvantaged compared to their peers in well-equipped schools across Abuja.
Call to Action
- *FCT Administration to Prioritize Education*: The FCT administration needs to prioritize education and allocate funds effectively to repair and maintain schools.
- *Provision of Safe Classrooms*: Every child deserves safe classrooms, trained teachers, and equal opportunities.
- *Accountability*: There is a need for accountability on how the UBEC funds are being utilized to ensure that schools like LEA Primary School Makanima receive the necessary support ¹.
