Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has urged Northern leaders to address the persistent almajiri crisis head-on, warning it poses a serious threat to national stability.
Speaking at a regional conference in Lafia on population dynamics, security, and vulnerable children, Sule described the almajiri system as a “time bomb” that could ignite social unrest if not resolved.
He attributed the issue to systemic neglect and cultural misconceptions, emphasizing the need for community education on responsible parenting and adherence to Islamic teachings.
“It’s a sin to have more children or wives than one can care for,” he noted. Sule announced plans to establish special schools to rehabilitate almajiris and urged local councils to prioritize agriculture for food security.
National Commission statistics reveal over 30 million almajiris in Nigeria, making it the second-highest globally for out-of-school children. Efforts to integrate 350 almajiris into education and skill programs in Kaduna have commenced.
Sule called for self-reliance in solving the crisis, stating, “Northern Nigeria must stop holding the nation hostage over its problems.”
The conference, attended by key stakeholders, highlighted the urgency of sustainable solutions to the region’s socio-economic challenges.
