By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja, Kogi State – February 27, 2025
The Kogi State Government has secured $500 million in funding from the World Bank to enhance access to quality basic education and primary healthcare services across the state.
The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, made this known during a Citizens’ Sensitization Programme held at the Government House in Lokoja on Thursday. He stated that the funding, provided under the World Bank’s HOPE-GOV initiative, will significantly strengthen the state’s education and healthcare sectors.
Hon. Idris emphasized that education and healthcare form the foundation of a productive and resilient society, noting that increased investment in these sectors is essential for accelerating human capital development and fostering inclusive growth in Kogi State.
Dr. Habibat Tijani, the State Accountant General and World Bank Fiscal Focal Person, highlighted that the HOPE-GOV initiative would not only boost funding but also enhance fiscal transparency, improve budget credibility, and ensure accountability in the use of state resources. She further noted that the initiative would improve the recruitment and performance of teachers and healthcare professionals in the state.
Commending the initiative, the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, praised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s dedication to repositioning the education sector. He revealed that the administration has allocated over ₦1.2 billion to cover external examination fees for pupils and students in primary and secondary schools.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, stated that the HOPE-GOV initiative is set to transform healthcare service delivery, ensuring greater access to essential medical services for Kogi residents.
With this substantial financial boost, the Kogi State Government is poised to make significant strides in improving the welfare of its citizens through enhanced education and healthcare services.
