The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project in Kogi State has begun the disbursement of N40,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) grants to adolescent schoolgirls, marking another milestone in the state’s drive to boost female education.

The exercise, which took place on Wednesday at GYB Model Science Secondary School, Lokoja, followed the official flag-off of the scheme by Governor Usman Ododo on July 28, 2025. The initiative seeks to enhance enrolment, retention, and transition of girls in schools, thereby strengthening their contribution to Kogi’s social and economic development.

During the distribution, parents and guardians of beneficiaries received preloaded ATM cards.

Kogi State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ahmed Oricha, commended the governor for fulfilling his promise, noting that the disbursement was part of a sustained intervention. “The project would provide a cash grant of N40,000 each to 13,359 adolescent girls in transition classes across the state to dismantle financial and socio-cultural barriers preventing girls from attending school,” he said.

Oricha further appealed to students to maintain consistent school attendance and urged parents to ensure the funds are spent solely on education.

The Lead Consultant, Mr. Richard Alabi, stressed that the accounts tied to the ATM cards were strictly for AGILE disbursements. He cautioned, “Beneficiaries must sustain at least 70 percent school attendance to continue enjoying the scheme,” while warning parents against paying any processing fees since “the government has covered the costs.”

Mr. Kunle Musa, the Conditional Cash Transfer Lead, added that the distribution would be carried out in phases until all 13,359 beneficiaries had received their grants.

Also speaking, UBA Branch Manager Ms. Jennifer Efe praised the government’s efforts, saying that “Kogi is among the first states to commence actual implementation.” She encouraged parents to channel the funds into their children’s education and advised them to consider creating separate savings accounts for long-term planning.

Principal of GYBMSSS, Chief Godwin Yakubu, applauded Governor Ododo for prioritizing education and ensuring inclusivity for girls.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of parents, Mrs. Mariam Paul said, “I have received N40,000 on behalf of my daughter through the ATM card that was given to us. We are grateful to the government, AGILE, and all stakeholders for this support.”