From Gold Rahman, Lokoja
The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, has taken a significant step towards advancing girl child education in Kogi State with the introduction of a Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme.
The State Project Coordinator, Alh. Ahmed Oricha, disclosed this during an advocacy visit to Kogi Central at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, Alh. Dr. Ahmed Tijani Anaje, on Wednesday in Okene.
Oricha noted that the CCT program is one of AGILE’s key interventions for increasing school enrollment, retention, and transition of girls across public secondary schools.
He emphasised that the initiative was designed to provide financial assistance to girls in public secondary schools, enabling them to overcome economic barriers and stay in school.
“By investing in the education of girls, the AGILE project is contributing to the development of a more equitable and prosperous society,” he said.
Oricha reaffimed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Ododo’s administration, to ensuring that no girl is left behind in the pursuit of education.
He expressed optimism that the program would yield positive outcomes and improve the lives of countless girls in Kogi State.
The project coordinator thanked the Ohinoyi for his warmth and fatherly support for AGILE project activities in the state.
In his remarks, the Ohinoyi expressed deep appreciation for the CCT initiative, calling on parents and guardians to ensure strict compliance with school attendance requirements.
The royal father described the AGILE project as a beacon of hope for young girls, urging communities to give it their unwavering support.
“This is not just about money. This is about securing the future of our daughters and our society,” Ohinoyi emphasised.
The CCT Component Lead, Mr Kunle Musa, gave a detailed presentation on the Conditional Cash Transfer initiative.
Musa explained that girls enrolled in JSS1 and SS1 in selected public schools will benefit from a total package of N50,000,
According to him, N15,000 for registration, N25,000 for transition support, and an additional N10,000 termly stipend.
Musa further explained that only students with a minimum of 70 per cent school attendance are eligible to receive the disbursement.
He sensitised the caregivers and stakeholders on how to open and secure bank accounts, the importance of financial safety, and the use of the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) for addressing any challenges.
The project coordinator noted that the Ohinoyi’s endorsement and support for the project underscored the importance of traditional leaders in promoting education and community.
