By Stephen Adeleye
The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project has advanced girl-child education in Kogi through the launch of a Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme.
The State Project Coordinator, Alh. Ahmed Oricha, revealed this on Wednesday during an advocacy visit to Kogi Central at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebira, Dr Ahmed Anaje.
Oricha stated that the CCT programme is a vital AGILE strategy to boost enrolment, retention, and transition of girls in public secondary schools.
He explained the initiative aims to support girls financially, helping them overcome economic challenges and continue their education without interruption.
“By educating girls, AGILE is helping to build a more just and prosperous society,” Oricha declared.
Oricha reaffirmed Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s commitment to ensuring no girl in Kogi is denied access to quality education.
He expressed hope that the CCT initiative would deliver long-term benefits and transform the lives of many girls.
The coordinator thanked the Ohinoyi for his kindness and ongoing support of AGILE’s mission across Kogi.
In his response, the Ohinoyi commended the initiative and urged parents to ensure strict school attendance for their daughters.
He praised AGILE as a beacon of hope for girls and encouraged full community support for the programme.
“This is not merely financial aid. It is an investment in the future of our daughters and our society,” the Ohinoyi stated.
The CCT Component Lead, Mr Kunle Musa, presented an overview of the Conditional Cash Transfer scheme to stakeholders.
Musa explained that girls in JSS1 and SS1 in selected schools will receive a total of ₦50,000 support.
This includes ₦15,000 for registration, ₦25,000 for transition, and ₦10,000 as a termly stipend.
He added that only students maintaining at least 70 per cent attendance will qualify for the cash disbursements.
Musa also guided caregivers on opening bank accounts, financial safety, and using the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) for complaints.
Oricha noted that the Ohinoyi’s endorsement highlights the vital role of traditional rulers in promoting education and development.
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