By Rabilu Abubakar, Gombe
The Emir of Deba, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Muhammad, has expressed his appreciation for the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) program, praising its contributions to advancing girl-child education. He assured the program of the full backing of the Emirate Council.
The Emir made these remarks during a familiarization and courtesy visit by the AGILE team, which sought collaboration and acceptance for the initiative within the Deba Emirate.
He commended AGILE for its efforts to reintegrate out-of-school girls into the formal education system, calling it an essential step in empowering young girls and promoting societal progress.
“AGILE has a vision that deserves praise. We will work diligently to support and sustain this program for the good of all,” said the Emir.
The Emir further emphasized his commitment by directing village heads, district heads, and other traditional leaders in his domain to support and facilitate the success of AGILE’s efforts.
Highlighting the importance of education for societal growth, the Emir reiterated his willingness to collaborate closely with AGILE to help achieve its objectives in the region.
Dr. Amina Haruna Abdul, Project Coordinator of the AGILE initiative, explained that the program is a World Bank-funded project operating in 18 Nigerian states, including Gombe.
She credited Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya for prioritizing education, especially for the girl-child, which she noted was a key factor in Gombe’s inclusion in the program.
Dr. Amina outlined AGILE’s plans to construct and renovate schools in communities lacking junior secondary schools. The initiative aims to ease overcrowding in primary schools and expand access to education.
While the program is focused on empowering girls, Dr. Amina added that boys would also benefit, particularly through the provision of computer education. She emphasized the importance of equipping children with digital skills, noting the role of online learning during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Dr. Amina further highlighted that the AGILE project, now in its first year, will involve extensive community outreach and stakeholder engagement to ensure its success. The initiative is expected to address critical educational challenges and contribute to long-term development in the region.
