By Awwal Umar Kontagora As part of efforts by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to address the growing issue of Almajiri and out-of-s...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
As part of efforts by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to address the growing issue of Almajiri and out-of-school children, the Niger State Committee on Almajiri and Out-of-School Children visited His Royal Highness, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, Etsu Nupe, and Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers, to seek his guidance.
The Committee Chairman, Alhaji Shuaibu Gwada, explained that the committee was established in early 2024 by the governor to address the challenges posed by the Almajiri and out-of-school children, which have become a significant issue over the years.
He noted that while the Almajiri system is intended for the pursuit of Islamic knowledge, it has unfortunately become problematic due to neglect and the lack of proper care for the children.
"It is regrettable that the number of children roaming the streets rather than genuinely seeking knowledge continues to rise," Gwada said. "This situation poses a serious security threat to our country if no concrete action is taken."
Gwada expressed the committee's concern that these children could be easily lured into criminal activities by hoodlums and bandits. The purpose of the visit, he added, was to seek the wisdom of traditional leaders in finding a permanent solution to the problem, with the hope that Niger State could set an example for others.
In his response, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, commended Governor Bago for establishing the committee and congratulated its members. He emphasized that the task ahead requires commitment and dedication.
He acknowledged that children have the right to seek Islamic knowledge, but stressed that the practice must be controlled to prevent them from spending their time begging on the streets instead of learning.
"These children spend a significant portion of their time begging rather than acquiring knowledge. This trend must be corrected appropriately," he said.
Etsu Nupe noted that previous administrations had attempted to integrate out-of-school children into Tsangaya schools, but these efforts failed due to inadequate mechanisms and funding. He advised that government initiatives addressing the Almajiri issue should be directly overseen by the governor's office for effective monitoring and supervision.
Alhaji Muhammed Dattijo Usman, Secretary of the Committee, added that the committee was formed to revive the Almajiri system in the state and sought the blessings of the royal father. He mentioned that the committee had also engaged with local Islamic scholars (Ulamas) to ensure that the message would be effectively communicated and the Almajiri issue addressed for the benefit of society.
Other members of the committee include Dr. Hadiza Mohammed, Barr. Ndagi Wali, Alh. Adamu Salihu, Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, Alh. Ibrahim Liman (former Controller General of Federal Fire Service), Muhammed Tafyan, Mrs. Amina Gu'ar, Muhammed Ibrahim, Umar Farooq, Hajiya Binta Mamman (Commissioner for Information), and Abdullahi Ketso.
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