From Sani Gazas, Chinade Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, on Thursday, launched the disbursement of financial incentives and empowerment materials to thousands of girls and women across the state, aimed at boosting education, economic empowerment, and post-insurgency recovery.
The programme saw 32,382 girls receive over ₦1.2 billion through the AGILE conditional cash transfer programme, while 1,500 beneficiaries from the displaced Mallam Dunari community in Gujba Local Government Area received ₦300 million in Micro-Enterprise Grants. In addition, 340 women across 17 local government areas were empowered with cooking gas, micro-ovens, mixers, and flour to support income-generating ventures.
Speaking at the launch, Gov. Buni said the interventions reflect his administration’s commitment to education and social development.
“This project aligns perfectly with our policy thrust, which places top priority on education. Education is the foundation for progress and development, and it requires adequate attention, funding, and supervision to succeed,” he said.
He highlighted reforms in the education sector, including the recruitment and training of teachers, renovation of over 5,000 classrooms, establishment of 13 mega and model schools, provision of teaching and learning materials, and timely payment of WAEC and NECO fees for SS III students.
“In our quest to boost girl-child education, we have established nine Senior Girls Day Secondary Schools to ensure smooth transition and reduce drop-outs,” he added.
On the Micro-Enterprise Grants, Gov. Buni explained that the initiative supports displaced communities and promotes economic recovery.
“This intervention demonstrates our commitment to recovery, stabilization, and durable solutions for communities affected by insurgency and displacement. It complements investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and social services in Gujba LGA, particularly in Goniri, where we have built a new Primary Health Care Centre, provided motorized water boreholes, and installed solar streetlights,” he said.
Malam Abdullahi Bula, AGILE State Project Coordinator, said the cash incentives target female students from disadvantaged homes.
“The cash intervention will go a long way in ensuring beneficiaries remain in school,” he said.
Dr. Muhammadu Goje, SEMA Executive Secretary, noted that each Micro-Enterprise Grant beneficiary from Mallam Dunari would receive ₦200,000 to start or expand a business after undergoing training.
Gov. Buni urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grants and materials.
“Let me admonish beneficiaries to reciprocate government’s gesture by making effective use of these interventions, bearing in mind that you are the lucky few selected out of thousands,” he said.
The programme, conceived in collaboration with the World Bank, is part of broader efforts to enhance education, women empowerment, and economic stability in Yobe State.
