By Bishop Aturu.
The Kogi State Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project is set to take a significant step in improving girls’ education as His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, prepares to launch the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) scheme for over 13,000 adolescent girls across the state.
The official Flag-Off Ceremony will take place on 28th July 2025 in Lokoja and will witness the presence of the Executive Governor, top government officials, representatives from the Ministry of Education, the World Bank, and other development partners.
This landmark initiative targets girls in transition classes, Primary 6, JSS1, JSS3, and SS1 with the objective of increasing enrollment, retention, and progression in school. A total of 13,359 beneficiaries will receive ₦40,000 each, broken down into: ₦15,000 for school registration support, ₦25,000 for transition support, and an additional ₦10,000 termly stipend to encourage regular attendance.
The CCT falls under Component 2, Sub-component 2.3 of the AGILE Project and is aimed at removing financial barriers and promoting inclusive, quality education for adolescent girls in the state.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Alh. Ahmed Tijani Oricha, the Kogi AGILE Project Coordinator, described the initiative as “a strategic investment in the future of our girls and the long-term development of Kogi State. Every girl deserves the opportunity to stay in school and thrive.”
The Project commended the unwavering support of the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, who doubles as the Chairman of the State Steering Committee, as well as the cooperation of implementing partners, media stakeholders, and the National Project Coordination Unit (NPCU) for their technical guidance and collaboration.
As preparations for the launch continue, the state government calls on parents, guardians, community leaders, and all stakeholders to support the implementation and ensure the initiative’s long-term success.
