By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project has called for enhanced collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Orientation to amplify its impact in the state.
This appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Project Coordinator, Mansur Isa Buhari, who stressed the Ministry’s pivotal role in public awareness and engagement.
“We believe that effective communication is key to the success of our project, as the Ministry of Information is our most strategic partner in ensuring the people of Sokoto are informed and engaged on the importance of the educational initiatives we are working on,” Buhari stated.
Launched in August 2023, the AGILE project focuses on empowering women and girls through education and skills development. During its first six months, the initiative recorded significant progress in improving the lives of its beneficiaries. However, Buhari noted that more work lies ahead as the project enters its second year.
He expressed gratitude for the support received so far, particularly from media professionals, and called for greater collaboration in 2025. Buhari urged the Ministry to integrate media-related activities into the project’s work plan, including training local journalists and media personnel to report on girls’ education and related issues.
“We are hopeful that in 2025, we can work together to build the capacity of our media professionals to report on the challenges and opportunities in girls’ education,” Buhari said. “This will ensure that critical issues affecting our communities are communicated clearly and effectively.”
The project’s Information Officer, Ghani Abdullahi, explained that AGILE is a five-year initiative designed to create sustainable educational and empowerment opportunities for women and girls in Sokoto State. With continued support from the Ministry of Information, Buhari expressed confidence in the project’s ability to leave a lasting impact on the local community.
In response, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Alhaji Sambo Bello Danchadi, pledged full support for the initiative. He commended the AGILE team for their achievements, highlighting the project’s radio program on Vision FM, which addresses critical issues like providing sanitation facilities for girls.
“I have been following your activities closely and am particularly impressed by the positive changes your project has brought to the state,” Danchadi said. “We are 100% committed to assisting you and will work with you to ensure that the project reaches its full potential.”
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Muhammad K, reaffirmed this commitment, emphasizing the importance of reshaping public perception through effective information dissemination. He assured the AGILE team of the Ministry’s readiness to support their efforts using state-owned media platforms.
“The best thing we can do is change the narrative and mindset,” Muhammad said. “We will ensure the largest platform is made available to you, particularly through radio, so your messages reach every corner of the state.”
The AGILE project continues to advance its mission of fostering education and empowerment, with stronger partnerships poised to enhance its reach and impact in Sokoto State.
