In a bold move to address insecurity in Borno State, Governor Babagana Zulum inaugurated a summit focused on reforming the Almajiri education system, a traditional method of Islamic learning prevalent across northern Nigeria.
The summit, which took place at the Conference Hall of Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri, brought together education stakeholders, religious leaders, and community advocates to discuss ways of integrating the Almajiri system with formal basic education.
Governor Zulum, in his address, emphasized the critical role of education in addressing the root causes of insecurity in Borno, particularly in curbing the spread of extremism. He pointed out that the improper teaching of Islamic studies had contributed to the rise of Boko Haram insurgents in the region, stressing the need to reform the Almajiri system to prevent further radicalization.
To this end, the Borno State Government has established the Arabic and Sangaya Education Board, which is implementing a unified curriculum that blends Islamic studies with formal education, including vocational skills, literacy, and numeracy. This reform aims to provide Almajiri children with the skills necessary for personal development and future employment opportunities.
Governor Zulum noted that the reform includes the establishment of Higher Islamic Colleges, designed specifically for Almajiri children, where they will receive both religious and secular education. “The Sangaya Reform will give Almajiri children a better chance in life,” he said. “It integrates Western education with vocational training, preparing them for further education and employment.”
Shiekh Arabi Abdulfatahi, Chairman of the Borno State Arabic and Sangaya Education Board, expressed his gratitude for Governor Zulum’s support in advancing the educational reforms. Guest speakers at the summit, including Mustapha Gwadabe, a professor from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Mohammed Alhaji, a professor from the University of Maiduguri, called for a comprehensive overhaul of the Almajiri system to improve its effectiveness and relevance in modern society.
The summit underscored the importance of integrating informal and formal educational systems to create quality, inclusive educational opportunities for all children in Borno.
