The Kogi State Government on Wednesday commenced the disbursement of ₦534,360,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project to schoolgirls across the state.
The initiative is aimed at improving school enrollment, retention, and transition for adolescent girls, thereby contributing to the state’s social and economic development. At the flag-off held at GYB Model Science Secondary School (GYBMSSS), Lokoja, the AGILE team distributed preloaded ATM cards to parents and guardians of beneficiaries.
The State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ahmed Oricha, commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for ensuring that ATM cards were provided to all beneficiaries. He explained that the disbursement is part of a continuous intervention under the AGILE project and not a one-off exercise.
According to him, the project will provide a cash grant of ₦40,000 each to 13,359 adolescent girls in transition classes across the state, helping to remove financial and socio-cultural barriers to education. He urged schoolgirls to maintain regular attendance and called on parents to ensure the funds are used strictly for educational purposes.
The Lead Consultant, Mr. Richard Alabi, noted that the accounts linked to the ATM cards are dedicated wallets for AGILE funds and must not be diverted. He added that beneficiaries must sustain at least 70 per cent attendance to remain eligible and reminded parents not to pay any processing fees, as all costs have been covered by the government.
The Conditional Cash Transfer Lead, Mr. Kunle Musa, explained that the disbursement would be carried out in batches until all 13,359 beneficiaries receive their grants.
UBA Branch Manager, Ms. Jennifer Efe, commended the state government’s commitment to education, noting that Kogi is among the first states to begin full implementation of the AGILE-CCT programme. She advised parents to use the funds appropriately and consider setting up savings accounts for future planning.
The Principal of GYBMSSS, Chief Godwin Ajofe Yakubu, praised Governor Ododo for prioritising education and ensuring inclusivity for girls.
Parents also expressed gratitude. One of them, Mrs. Mariam Paul, confirmed receiving ₦40,000 on behalf of her daughter and thanked the government and stakeholders for the support.
