The Federal Government has officially approved a new National Policy for the Enhancement of Almajiri Education, marking a significant shift in the regulation of Qur'anic learning centres across Nigeria. The policy, endorsed by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration, makes it illegal for these centres to send pupils out to beg on the streets or engage in menial jobs.
Comprehensive Framework for Almajiri Schools
Approved under the Federal Ministry of Education, this policy is described as the first comprehensive national framework for regulating Almajiri schools in the country. It covers curriculum, welfare, registration, funding, and the monitoring of learning centres nationwide. The announcement was reported by The Punch, highlighting the government's commitment to overhauling the Almajiri system.
The policy document explicitly states: "No learner(s) shall be sent out to beg in the street or do menial jobs." It further warns that any registered learning centre found violating this rule "shall face appropriate action such as sanction from operation," including possible closure. The government aims "to eradicate all forms of begging, abuse and stigmatisation associated with Almajiri in line with the existing Child Protection Laws," addressing years of children roaming streets to beg for food and alms, which has exposed many to exploitation and abuse.
Curriculum Expansion: Literacy, Digital, and Vocational Skills
Beyond banning street begging, the policy mandates the integration of literacy and numeracy into Almajiri teaching nationwide. Digital skills, vocational training, Arabic language, civic education, and life skills will also be incorporated into the curriculum. This move is designed to equip learners with practical skills for future economic opportunities.
The policy document states that learners should have access to "vocational and technical skills of their choice or those approved by their parents or guardians." For the first time, graduates of recognised Almajiri centres will receive formal certification. The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education will collaborate with relevant federal agencies to establish a structured certification process.
Registration, Biometrics, and Health Standards
All Almajiri learning centres must now register with state or local government authorities and maintain both manual and electronic records, including biometric data for every learner. This move aims to improve oversight and accountability within the system.
On health, the policy requires learners to undergo screening before admission, and facilitators to have periodic health checks. Each centre must register with a nearby public health facility, maintain first aid equipment, and provide adequate water, sanitation, and ventilation. Separate learning spaces for male and female pupils are prescribed, and boarding schools must meet minimum hostel standards.
Support and Development for Registered Centres
Registered schools will be eligible for learning materials, healthcare services, nutrition support, school feeding programmes, and teacher scholarships. Facilitators will be integrated into teacher development programmes run by agencies including the Universal Basic Education Commission and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria.
The government clarified that the policy is a reform, not an abolition: "It is developed not to take over learning centres but to provide clear operational guidelines, direction and streamline activities of the Almajiri education system." This follows the establishment of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education in 2023, which coordinates efforts to address Nigeria's large out-of-school children population, a significant proportion linked to the Almajiri system in northern Nigeria.
Context and Reactions
The policy comes amid ongoing discussions about the Almajiri system's role in Nigeria's education crisis. Notably, Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), recently shared his personal journey from an Almajiri school to leading Africa's top energy company, celebrating his 60th birthday. He reflected on life's struggles and triumphs, crediting Allah's grace for his growth and achievements, and pledged greater service to Nigeria.
This new policy represents a bold step towards reforming Almajiri education, with the potential to transform the lives of thousands of children across Nigeria by providing them with structured education and protection from exploitation.
