The Gombe State Government has begun disbursing ₦726 million in scholarships to 12,101 female students under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, a World Bank–assisted programme designed to boost girls’ access to quality education and improve school infrastructure across the state.
Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Manassah Jatau, described the initiative as a major step forward in the state’s drive for inclusive and equitable education.
“This investment in our girls is an investment in the future of Gombe State,” Yahaya said, noting that the scholarship targets female students in public junior and senior secondary schools because of their vital role in family and community development.
Alongside the scholarships, the government also unveiled the School Improvement Grants for 537 public secondary schools to upgrade infrastructure, improve safety, and enhance learning conditions. The grants are categorised as follows:
- Small Schools (≈200 students): ₦23.1 million each
- Medium Schools (≈500 students): ₦46.2 million each
- Large Schools (1,000+ students): ₦92.4 million each
Governor Yahaya commended the World Bank, AGILE Project Implementation Unit, and the Ministry of Education for their efforts, urging school committees and communities to ensure transparent use of the funds.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Aishatu Maigari, described the project as a milestone in Governor Yahaya’s vision to transform basic and secondary education. “This initiative reflects inclusion, equity, and sustainable growth. Through Your Excellency’s leadership, Gombe has successfully implemented AGILE to reach thousands of girls,” she said.
AGILE Project Coordinator, Dr. Amina Haruna, explained that the project aims to eliminate barriers to girls’ education by providing financial support and improving school facilities. She stressed accountability in fund utilisation and praised the active involvement of traditional and religious leaders in promoting the programme.
Highlighting the scholarship’s benefits, Dr. Haruna said each girl would receive ₦60,000 per session — ₦40,000 for uniforms and learning materials, and ₦10,000 per term for other school needs. “This will ease the financial burden on parents who want their daughters educated but lack the means,” she added.
The ceremony ended with the symbolic presentation of ATM cards to beneficiaries and cheques to school representatives.
