By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Zuma Deck of the National Association of Seadogs, in collaboration with Ventosa Deck, has organised a reading competition for pupils in two L.E.A. primary schools in Abuja.
The initiative, held to mark the 2026 International Literacy Day, took place at L.E.A. Primary Schools, Kagini and Tunga Maje, under the theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.”
Led by the Capoon of Zuma Deck, Mr Linus Igwe, the programme brought together pupils, teachers and school authorities to promote reading, educational development and responsible citizenship.
A major highlight was a reading competition involving pupils from the two schools, with L.E.A. Primary School, Kagini, emerging as the overall winner.
The organisers said the competition was designed to encourage pupils to develop stronger reading habits and deepen their interest in education.
The programme also featured motivational sessions by Engr. Ephraim Egiga, Mr Uchechukwu Francis Bamah and Engr. Leo Inyang, who spoke to the pupils on education, personal development and responsible decision-making.
The speakers encouraged the pupils to take their studies seriously, develop positive habits and pursue purposeful careers.
The event also featured a literacy education session and a lecture on drug abuse, during which the pupils were sensitised to the dangers of substance abuse.
The session emphasised the importance of discipline, education and responsible choices in protecting young people from the consequences of drug abuse.
As part of the environmental component of the programme, the organisers planted 10 trees at each of the two schools.
The tree-planting exercise was aimed at promoting environmental awareness among the pupils while reinforcing the theme of the International Literacy Day celebration.
The Decks also distributed 1,000 branded exercise books, alongside pens, school bags and mathematical sets, to pupils at the two schools.
The educational materials, the organisers said, were intended to support the pupils in their academic activities and provide practical assistance to the schools.
The pupils expressed appreciation for the gesture, while the school authorities commended Zuma Deck and Ventosa Deck for supporting education and the welfare of learners.
The initiative, according to the organisers, formed part of their community development activities aimed at promoting education, literacy and responsible citizenship among young people.
The programme also underscored the role of community-based interventions in complementing efforts to improve learning opportunities and raise awareness of social issues affecting children.
