Kogi State has begun the distribution of N40,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) grants to 13,359 adolescent girls as part of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project. The initiative, launched by Governor Usman Ododo in July 2025, aims to address the financial and socio-cultural barriers preventing girls from accessing education, especially in transition classes across the state.
The disbursement ceremony took place at GYB Model Science Secondary School, Lokoja, where ATM cards preloaded with the cash grants were handed over to the parents and guardians of the beneficiaries. The project, a follow-up to the governor’s commitment, marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to increase school enrolment, retention, and transition among young girls, ultimately contributing to the social and economic development of the region.
Mr. Ahmed Oricha, the Kogi State Project Coordinator, applauded the governor for ensuring the timely distribution of ATM cards to all the beneficiaries, stating that the programme would continue as a sustained initiative under the AGILE project. He emphasized that the N40,000 grant per girl would be a crucial financial support for families, making education more accessible to girls in the state.
“The project is designed to dismantle the financial and socio-cultural barriers that have hindered girls from continuing their education,” Oricha explained. “This is not a one-time initiative but an ongoing intervention that will make a lasting impact on the lives of adolescent girls in Kogi.”
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Mr. Richard Alabi, the Lead Consultant for the AGILE programme, further reassured beneficiaries and their families that the funds provided through the ATM cards would be strictly allocated for educational purposes. He stressed that any diversion of the funds would be against the programme’s objectives and urged beneficiaries to maintain a 70% school attendance rate to continue receiving support.
“We want to ensure that these funds are used to enhance the education of the girls. Parents should not pay any form of processing fees, as the government has already covered the costs,” Alabi added.
Ms. Jennifer Efe, the Branch Manager of UBA, who partnered with the state government for the disbursement, commended Kogi for being one of the first states to roll out this significant initiative. She encouraged parents to utilize the funds wisely and consider opening separate savings accounts for their children’s future education needs.
The initiative received overwhelming praise from the Principal of GYBMSSS, Chief Godwin Yakubu, who lauded Governor Ododo’s leadership in prioritizing education and ensuring that girls are not left behind in the development process.
Mrs. Mariam Paul, a parent of one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude to the state government and all stakeholders involved.
“I have received N40,000 for my daughter, and we are deeply grateful for this support,” she said.
