Empowering Underserved Communities: Common Men Assembly Launches Ambitious “Back to School 2026” Initiative in Delta State

 

In a commendable effort to bridge the gap in educational access for children in remote and underserved areas, the Common Men Assembly (CMA), a prominent non-governmental organization, has kicked off its highly anticipated “Back to School 2026” initiative. This grassroots-driven program aims to enhance learning environments in primary schools across Delta State, particularly in riverine and hard-to-reach communities. Launched amid growing concerns over educational disparities in Nigeria's Niger Delta region, the initiative underscores the power of community-led interventions in fostering sustainable development.

The Common Men Assembly, composed of dedicated young professionals from diverse fields including medicine, law, engineering, and business, has positioned itself as a credible force for positive change in Delta State. Partnering with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited—a leading security firm known for its corporate social responsibility efforts—and the Godfrey Pondi Book Club, an organization dedicated to promoting literacy and reading culture since 2015, CMA is rolling out a comprehensive outreach. These collaborations highlight a shared commitment to education as a cornerstone of societal progress.

The “Back to School 2026” program is ambitiously structured to impact 25 communities spanning five Local Government Areas within a single week, with a strong focus on riverine schools in areas like Burutu and Warri South West. Recent reports indicate that the initiative involves the distribution of over 20,000 exercise books, 5,000 school bags, 5,000 pairs of sandals, and 500 classroom desks, marking it as one of the largest NGO-led school support efforts in Delta State in recent times. This scale of intervention addresses longstanding challenges such as inadequate furniture, lack of basic stationery, and insufficient footwear, which often hinder pupils' attendance and concentration in flood-prone and isolated regions.

At the forefront of this noble cause is Chief Angodideke Jude, the Chairman of CMA and a respected medical professional. During the program's launch, Chief Jude emphasized that education remains the most potent tool for sustainable development. “Providing children with basic educational tools is not merely an act of charity,” he stated. “It represents a strategic investment in human capital development and the overall progress of our communities.” He further described the Back to School project as a flagship component of CMA's broader community development agenda, reflecting the organization's ongoing dedication to uplifting the common people through actionable initiatives.

The rollout began with impactful activities in Burutu and Warri South West Local Government Areas, where several primary schools received immediate support. Notable beneficiaries included schools in communities such as Okosugbene, Orugbene, and Ofogbene, each receiving 30 desks along with additional classroom materials like books, school bags, and sandals. These donations were formally presented to school and community representatives, ensuring transparency and direct accountability.

Among the recipients were:

• Benja-light Primary School, Okosugbene, represented by Mrs. Ebiyerin Esiri;
• Aprebodo Primary School, Izanza, represented by Mr. Roland Government;
• Ella Primary School, Ofogbene, represented by Mrs. Serigbana Emomotimi;
• Akolobegba Primary School, Orugbene, through a community representative;
• Ekumu Primary School, Ekogbene, via Community Chairman Mr. Ebikanwei Amapere;
• Egbondi Primary School, Bulou-Indoro, represented by Assistant Headmaster Mr. Oweikeniafa Ebi.

The joy and gratitude expressed by pupils, teachers, and community leaders during these handovers were palpable, illustrating the profound and immediate difference such support makes. Children who previously sat on the floor or shared limited resources now have proper desks, while others received essential items to make their daily trek to school more comfortable and dignified.

Beyond the tangible supplies, the “Back to School 2026” initiative symbolizes renewed hope and a sense of shared responsibility among stakeholders. In many riverine areas of Delta State, schools face unique hardships: seasonal flooding disrupts classes, poor infrastructure limits access, and economic constraints prevent families from affording basic school needs. By targeting these vulnerabilities, CMA is not only alleviating short-term barriers but also contributing to long-term goals like improved enrollment rates, better academic performance, and reduced dropout rates.

This program aligns with broader national and regional efforts to achieve quality education for all, as outlined in global frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals. In Nigeria, where educational inequities persist—particularly in rural and riverine zones—initiatives like this serve as models for how NGOs can complement government efforts. CMA's approach, rooted in community involvement and partnerships with local entities, ensures sustainability and cultural relevance.

The involvement of partners like Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, led by figures committed to community welfare, and the Godfrey Pondi Book Club, which has a track record of promoting intellectual growth through reading programs and competitions, adds significant depth to the project. Their combined resources and expertise enable a holistic impact, from physical infrastructure to motivational support for learning.

As the week-long outreach continues, reaching more communities across the selected Local Government Areas, the Common Men Assembly reinforces its reputation as a beacon of grassroots empowerment. Chief Angodideke Jude and his team have demonstrated that collective action by ordinary citizens—hence the name "Common Men"—can yield extraordinary results. This initiative not only equips children with tools for today but also lays a robust foundation for tomorrow's leaders.

In conclusion, the “Back to School 2026” program stands as a testament to the transformative potential of community-driven philanthropy. By addressing the root causes of educational challenges in Delta State's underserved areas, CMA is empowering generations, fostering local pride, and contributing to a brighter, more equitable future. Such efforts remind us that true progress begins at the grassroots level, one desk, one book, and one child at a time.