Kogi Flags Off Renovation Of 728 Schools Under AGILE Programme.

Emmanuel Clement 

The Kogi State Government has commenced plans to renovate 728 government-owned public schools across the state under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project.

Speaking during the official launch of the project at the Government House in Lokoja on Thursday 2, April 2026,the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the initiative as a major milestone in the state’s educational transformation.

Salifu noted that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to prioritising education, stressing that no nation can achieve sustainable development without investing in the education sector.

He explained that the renovation of the schools goes beyond infrastructure upgrade, describing it as a strategic effort to reposition the state’s education system for improved learning outcomes.

“Today’s event is not merely ceremonial; it is a clear demonstration of this administration’s resolve to invest in the future of our state through education,” he said.

“We recognise that no meaningful development can take place without a strong and functional education system, and that system must be supported by infrastructure that is safe, inclusive, and conducive for learning.

“Across the state, many of our schools have served communities for decades. While they have played their roles in shaping lives, the time has come to renew, upgrade, and reposition them to meet the demands of modern education.

“The renovation of 728 government-owned schools is therefore not just an intervention, but a bold statement of intent. It is a testament that every child in Kogi State deserves a decent place to learn,” the Deputy Governor added.

In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, said the initiative demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to revitalising the education sector.

He stressed that a responsive government cannot neglect education, noting that the present administration is taking deliberate steps to improve access to quality and affordable education across the state.

Jones also disclosed that the Ministry of Education has received over N1.4 billion to support the payment of examination fees for students sitting for WAEC and NECO, describing the gesture as a major boost to educational development.

He further revealed that arrangements are ongoing to begin Computer-Based Testing (CBT) training for students, in preparation for future examinations and to improve digital literacy among learners.

“Education remains a top priority for this administration, and the renovation of schools will positively impact all parts of the state,” the Commissioner said.

Also speaking, the State AGILE Project Coordinator, Comrade Tijani Oricha, explained that the project is designed to strengthen school systems and improve learning environments across Kogi State.

According to him, 30 service providers have already been selected to handle renovation works in 125 schools in the first phase of the project.

Oricha assured that the implementation process would be closely monitored to ensure quality delivery and value for money, while also noting that host communities are expected to benefit from the initiative.

In his goodwill message, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, commended the state government for the intervention and emphasised the importance of investing in girls’ education as a pathway to societal development.