Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has inaugurated a conditional cash transfer programme aimed at supporting 8,225 secondary schoolgirls across all 14 local government areas of the state.

The official launch, which took place on Wednesday in Gusau—the state capital—was carried out in collaboration with the ACReSAL and AGILE projects.

According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, the initiative targets schoolgirls from the most vulnerable and economically disadvantaged households.

Each beneficiary will receive ₦40,000 initially, with an additional ₦10,000 allocated for each of the second and third school terms, totaling ₦60,000 per academic year. The first phase of the programme has been allocated ₦322 million, with plans underway to begin disbursement to a second batch.

Governor Lawal emphasized that the programme is part of a broader commitment to improving education, social protection, and inclusive development in Zamfara.

“We are determined to remove all obstacles—economic, social, and infrastructural—that hinder our girls from accessing and completing their education,” he said. “Educating a girl means empowering a community, as these girls grow to become women who uplift families, strengthen communities, and drive societal progress.”

In addition to the education grants, the governor also launched the disbursement of a Community Revolving Fund under the ACReSAL project. This fund will benefit 500 individuals in the local government areas of Gusau, Bungudu, and Kaura Namoda.

Governor Lawal explained that the fund is intended to support grassroots efforts in environmental protection and economic development, addressing issues such as land degradation and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

“Our communities face challenges—from women running small businesses to youths seeking economic opportunities,” he said. “This fund will serve as a revolving source of support, fostering resilience, sustainability, and accountability. I encourage all recipients to use the resources responsibly to ensure long-term community benefits.”

He also praised the efforts of the Ministries of Environment and Natural Resources, Education, Science and Technology, and technical partners for their roles in driving the initiatives forward.

Reassuring citizens, Governor Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to impactful, grassroots-centered policies.

“To our beneficiaries—what you receive today is a seed. Nurture it, grow it, and let it blossom into lasting change for your families and communities,” he said.