The Federal Government of Nigeria has fulfilled its promise to reconstruct a school severely damaged during the devastating Haiti earthquake of 2010. Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to this humanitarian endeavor has led to the successful reconstruction of the Benoit Batraville High School in Saut-D’eau, Haiti.
The journey towards restoring this educational institution faced unforeseen challenges, leading to the temporary suspension of the project in 2015. However, the Nigerian Government, through its High Commission in Jamaica, which is also accredited to Haiti, breathed new life into the initiative. The contract was awarded to Benson Construction Company based in Jamaica, marking the beginning of an inspiring collaborative effort.
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The reconstruction project commenced in February 2023 and was successfully completed by August 23, 2023, well within the anticipated timeframe, reflecting the resilience and commitment of all parties involved.
The completion of the school marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s commitment to Haiti. On August 29, 2023, the school was officially handed over to the Haitian Authorities in a solemn ceremony.
Among the esteemed attendees were Her Excellency Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, who also holds concurrent accreditation to Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Belize. The ceremony also saw the presence of Mr. Nesmy Manigat, the Minister of Education in Haiti, and Mr. Azad Belfort, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Haiti. Several senior government officials from Haiti were also in attendance.
In her address, Tamuno emphasized the enduring bilateral relations between Nigeria and Haiti, underscoring her joy at the successful project completion. She expressed profound gratitude to the Almighty for guiding her team throughout this journey. Additionally, she extended her heartfelt thanks to H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, for his unwavering commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through the renewed hope agenda.
She also conveyed her appreciation to H.E. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and his Haitian counterpart, H.E. Monsieur Jean Victor Geneus, for their invaluable support and cooperation. The Municipal Council of Saut-D’eau and Mr. Nesmy Manigat, the Minister of Education in Haiti, were also acknowledged for their instrumental roles in making this project a reality.
Tamuno encouraged students and teachers to make full use of the outstanding educational facility that has been delivered. She expressed her eagerness to visit Haiti once again in the near future, further strengthening the ties that bind these two nations in solidarity and shared aspirations.
