Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has officially launched the disbursement of Small and Medium School Improvement Grants (SIGs) under the Adolescent Girls’ Initiatives for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project. This initiative aims to improve education infrastructure across the state, with a focus on enhancing access, retention, and completion rates in schools.
At a ceremony held in Gusau, the governor presented award letters to contractors chosen as Technical Service Providers responsible for the renovation and rehabilitation of 322 schools. The total budget for this phase of the project stands at N11.7 billion.
Governor Lawal highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to revitalizing the education sector in Zamfara State. We declared a state of emergency on education, and this disbursement of School Improvement Grants is part of our strategic plan to renovate and rehabilitate school infrastructure.”
He emphasized that the contractors play a critical role in ensuring the allocated funds lead to real improvements in schools, urging them to follow the School Improvement Plans (SIPs) and project guidelines meticulously. Lawal added that a strong monitoring system is in place to ensure compliance and value for money.
The governor also called on the Project Monitoring team, School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), and the general public to remain vigilant throughout the implementation process, stressing that this initiative is an investment in Zamfara’s future. “This is not just about building and renovating schools; it is about securing a better future for our children,” he said.
The launch marks the first phase of the SIGs under the AGILE project, as Zamfara continues its efforts to create safe and conducive learning environments for its students.