Zulum Empowers 150 Almajirai With Vocational Tools & Cash Vows to Protect Learners
By Abdulhamid Sani
Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria – Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has taken a significant step towards empowering vulnerable youth by presenting essential working tools to 150 almajirai students who recently completed vocational skills training sponsored by his administration.
The comprehensive training program equipped the students with skills in high-demand trades, including electrical installation and repair, solar installation and repair, leatherwork, welding, carpentry, and building construction. Beyond the tools, Governor Zulum also provided cash support to each beneficiary, enabling them to kickstart their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
This initiative underscores Governor Zulum’s commitment to enhancing individual capabilities, uplifting communities, and providing almajirai – students traditionally focused on Islamic education – with sustainable pathways to economic independence and a brighter future.
Addressing the graduates, Governor Zulum emphasized his administration’s unwavering support for Sangaya Islamic education while creating new avenues for its learners. “By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into reality,” he stated.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he added.
However, Governor Zulum also voiced serious concerns regarding the alarming rise in cases of child molestation under the guise of Islamic education. He firmly declared his administration’s zero tolerance for such abuses.
“I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity,” Governor Zulum asserted.
“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice. This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the chairman of the Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Aliyu Ahmad Abulfatahi, highlighted that the vocational training program, launched in 2023, is a key component of Governor Zulum’s strategy to address the challenges faced by almajiri children, who often lack access to formal education and economic opportunities. He noted the collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board in organizing the training.
The state Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, represented by his Special Adviser, Dr Bukar Tijjani, mentioned that the ministry has also partnered with institutions like the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies to provide certifications for almajiri learners, further enhancing their prospects.
Governor Zulum was accompanied at the event by members of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba and Hon Usman Zannah, the State APC Chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, the Shehu of Borno, represented by a dignitary, and other prominent figures. This initiative underscores the Borno State government’s holistic approach to empowering its youth and safeguarding the well-being of its most vulnerable populations.
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