Emir of Katagum Pledges Full Support as AGILE Seeks Stronger Push for Girl-Child Education in Bauchi

By Ahmad Adamu and Shehu Musa:

The State Coordinator of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Programme, Hajiya Ladi Hamma Muhammad, has paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Katagum, Umar Farooq II, at his palace in Azare to seek royal collaboration in advancing girl-child education across the state.

Speaking during the visit, Hajiya Ladi said the engagement was aimed at briefing the Emir on AGILE’s ongoing interventions in Katagum Local Government Area and other parts of Bauchi State.

She explained that the programme is implementing various initiatives designed to enhance girls’ access to quality education and provide the necessary support for them to thrive academically.

The coordinator, however, expressed concern over the reluctance of some parents to enroll their daughters in the programme despite sustained sensitization efforts.

She urged families to take full advantage of the initiative, emphasizing that educating the girl-child is a critical investment in a brighter and more secure future.

Hajiya Ladi disclosed that the first phase of the programme has been successfully launched, while the second phase is currently underway.

She added that some beneficiaries are already receiving stipends to support their schooling and reduce financial barriers to education.

In his response, the Emir of Katagum commended the AGILE programme for its positive impact on communities.

He noted that the Katagum Emirate has a long-standing tradition of promoting girl-child education, revealing that the emirate has produced about 15 female professors.

The Emir advised the programme to intensify its awareness campaigns by engaging traditional leaders, including district, village, and ward heads, to ensure deeper grassroots outreach.

He also highlighted the need to assist rural families facing difficulties in obtaining birth certificates and other required documentation for school enrollment.

Additionally, the monarch called on AGILE leaders to leverage their expertise to educate communities on the dangers of drug abuse, describing it as a growing threat to society.

Umar Farooq II pledged the emirate’s full support and cooperation toward ensuring the success of the AGILE programme in the state.

As part of the visit, the AGILE State Coordinator presented a gift to the Emir in recognition of his leadership and continued support for education.