Writing by DAUDA ILIYA; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children has announced plans to develop a strategic initiative aimed at tackling the menace of out-of-school children in the country.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Muhammad Idris, disclosed this during a visit to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, at his palace in Maiduguri.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Nigeria is one of the top three countries with the highest number of out-of-school children globally.
The situation has been further worsened by the conflict in the North East, leaving approximately three million children in urgent need of education across the most affected states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe.
In an effort to tackle the disturbing situation, the Federal Government established the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children to address the lingering issues of illiteracy and destitution among young people.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Muhammad Idris, during a visit to the Shehu of Borno, highlighted the growing concern over children wandering the streets, describing it as a significant threat to national peace and security.
He noted that individuals with malicious intent have exploited the children’s vulnerability, leading to severe degradation and chaos.
Dr. Idris expressed commitment to revitalising the sector by creating a model that could serve as a benchmark across the continent.
“We have informed the Shehu about the willingness of Mr. President to revitalise this very important, age long system of education, unless we get it right this time around, especially on the issue of Almajiri and Out-of-School Children we will continue to be dreaming of having a prosperous Nigeria that we will leave to the children yet unborn” Dr Idris said.
Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Alternative Education, Honourable Mustapha Abdullahi assured of increased budgetary allocation to the sector.
“On the side of the legislature, we are doing our best to see that we have an improved budgetary allocation, but I believe even before then, Mr. President is committed to getting a substantial amount to fund so that the noble objective of this Commission will be achieved. So, on funding, we have no problem. ” Hon. Abdullahi assured.
Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, lauded the federal government’s initiative and promised to provide the needed support to ensure success of the Commission
He urged for the establishment of additional Tsangaya schools to address the high number of out-of-school children in the state.
The Shehu also called on the residents to continue cooperating with security agencies and pray for enduring peace in the state and country at large.
Our Correspondent reports that Dr. Idris also visited the University of Maiduguri, Borno State University, and the Board for Tsangaya and Almajiri Education to explore potential collaborations and partnerships.
