Kogi Govt Begins Renovation of 728 Schools Under AGILE Programme to Transform Education Sector
Kogi State launches AGILE project to renovate 728 public schools, improve infrastructure, support students, and strengthen education across the state.
LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
The Kogi State Government has flagged off an ambitious plan to renovate 728 public schools across the state under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), marking a major step in its drive to reposition the education sector.
The project was officially launched at the Government House in Lokoja on Thursday, with top government officials and stakeholders describing it as a landmark intervention aimed at improving learning conditions and strengthening educational outcomes.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, said the initiative represents a significant milestone in the state’s education reform agenda, stressing that investment in education remains central to sustainable development.
He noted that the large-scale renovation of schools is not just an infrastructure upgrade but a deliberate effort to provide a safe, inclusive, and conducive learning environment for students across Kogi State.
“Today’s event goes beyond ceremony. It reflects this administration’s firm commitment to investing in the future of our state through education. No meaningful development can occur without a functional education system supported by quality infrastructure,” Salifu said.
He acknowledged that many public schools in the state have served communities for decades and now require urgent upgrades to meet modern standards. According to him, the renovation project underscores government’s resolve to ensure that every child has access to a dignified learning environment.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, described the initiative as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to revitalising the education sector. He maintained that no responsible government can neglect education, noting that efforts are ongoing to make learning more accessible and affordable.
The commissioner disclosed that the government has committed over ₦1.4 billion to support the payment of examination fees for students sitting for WAEC and NECO, a move aimed at reducing financial burdens on families and improving academic participation.
He further revealed that arrangements are in place to commence training for Computer-Based Testing (CBT), preparing students for modern examination formats and enhancing their competitiveness.
Providing insight into the project implementation, the State AGILE Project Coordinator, Comrade Tijani Oricha, said the programme is designed to strengthen teaching and learning systems while improving overall school environments.
He explained that 30 service providers have already been engaged to commence work in an initial batch of 150 schools, adding that the project will be closely monitored to ensure quality delivery and value for resources.
Oricha also called on stakeholders to uphold transparency and professionalism throughout the execution phase, noting that the success of the initiative depends on collective responsibility.
In his goodwill message, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, commended the state government for prioritising education, particularly initiatives that support the development of adolescent girls. He stressed that investing in girls’ education remains critical to societal progress.
Other dignitaries at the event also lauded the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, with the potential to transform the educational landscape of the state.
The AGILE programme is expected to significantly improve infrastructure across public schools, enhance learning outcomes, and reinforce the state government’s commitment to delivering quality education for all.