The Kogi State Government is set to renovate 728 public secondary schools across the State.
The project comes under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Enpowernment (AGILE) Project in the state.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who performed the flag-off ceremony at the Government House in Lokoja, said the project reflect the commitment of the government to improve the standard of education and provide students with safer and more conducive learning environment.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, Governor Ododo explained that the project is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and it is aimed at giving students better learning environment to thrive and excel.
He noted that many public schools in the state have been in use for many years and now require renovation and remodeling to be more conducive for learning.
“We recognize 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 role in shaping lives, the time has come to renew, upgrade, and reposition them to meet the demands of modern education,” he explained.
According to him:
“the government wants every child in Kogi State to learn in a good environment and every teacher to teach in better conditions.”
Governor Ododo also expressed appreciation for the support of the First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, for her passion for education, especially for the girl-child in the state.
Earlier, Kogi State Coordinator of the AGILE Project, Comrade Tijani Oricha, described the flag-off as a strong demonstration of Governor Ododo’s commitment to improving education and investing in the future of young people.
“The renovation of 728 schools is a major step towards providing better learning environment, restoring dignity to public schools, and bringing renewed hope to communities across the State,” he said.
He added, “The project will positively impact thousands of students and teachers by improving safety, boosting school attendance, and enhancing learning conditions. Every kobo invested must deliver value, every structure must meet standard, and every community must feel the impact. The project will be closely monitored for quality and value, and communities are expected to benefit from the renovation.”
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, said the project demonstrates the government’s zeal to revamp education in the State.
“No responsive government will fold its hands on matters concerning education,” he stressed.
He further noted that arrangements are underway to train students for Computer-Based Testing (CBT) examination, emphasizing that education is a top priority for the administration of Governor Ododo.
He further noted that the renovation will positively impact Public Schools in all parts of the State.
