Kogi AGILE launches massive renovation of 728 public schools to improve learning environment
Kogi AGILE launches massive renovation of 728 public schools to improve learning environment
By Idun Maximus
The Kogi State Government, has launched a massive renovation project aimed at transforming 728 government-owned public secondary schools across the state.
The project, under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), is expected to improve learning environments, boost teacher morale, and enhance education outcomes.
Speaking at the event on Thursday at Government House Lokoja, Gov. Ahmed Ododo, emphasised his administration’s commitment to education transformation in the state.
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the governor said the renovation project was a bold statement of intent to provide decent learning spaces for Kogi’s children.
The governor noted that the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to investing in Kogi’s future through education.
He emphasised that a strong education system, supported by safe and inclusive infrastructure, is crucial for meaningful development.
Ododo praised his wife, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, for her advocacy and commitment to the AGILE Project, and commended the Commissioner for Education for his leadership.
He acknowledged the contributions of the State Project Coordinator, the World Bank, and other development partners for their support and collaborations.
The governor urged the School-Based Management Committees to take ownership of the project and ensure its sustainability.
The State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, described the project as “historic” and praised Governor Ahmed Ododo for continuing the education legacy of his predecessor, Yahaya Bello.
Jones noted that the governor has approved N1.4bn for WAEC and other exam fees for public school students, as well as CBT training for students.
The Commissioner advised the Technical Service Providers to deliver quality work, with the administration vowing to monitor progress closely.
The State Project Coordinator of Kogi AGILE, Comrade Tijani Oricha, praised the governor’s commitment to education development in the state.
Oricha said that the renovation project was a testament to the administration’s dedication to improving the quality of education in the state.
Oricha also commended the First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, for her passion for girl child empowerment and her role as the Mother of the AGILE Project in Kogi State.
“The renovation project is expected to have a lasting impact on education in Kogi, restoring confidence in public schools and creating opportunities for thousands of young people.
“It will involve the rehabilitation of schools, improvement of safety, and creation of a more inclusive and supportive environment for learning.
“The project will be implemented in phases, with 150 schools selected for the first phase, and 30 Technical Service Providers chosen to carry out the work.
“Governor Ododo’s administration has demonstrated its commitment to education transformation, and this project is expected to contribute significantly to the state’s development,” Oricha said.
The Obaro of Kabba, HRM Oba Solomon Owoniyi, praised the state government and AGILE team for prioritising education especially girl child education and empowerment in the state.
The royal father assured the traditional institution’s full support for the project’s successful execution.
The Speaker, Kogi House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, represented by Deputy Speaker, Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba, commended the government on its education efforts.
The Speaker reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to supporting quality education development through legislation and oversight.
The government urged stakeholders, including School-Based Management Committees, to take ownership of the project and ensure its success.
