FG Threatens Closure of Non-Compliant Almajiri Centres

The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a warning regarding the closure of Almajiri centres that fail to adhere to newly established operational standards. This initiative is part of a national policy aimed at enhancing the education of Almajiri school children, released by the Federal Ministry of Education last month.

The policy mandates that all Almajiri centres, both male and female, must meet specific operational standards or face sanctions, including closure. Centres will be given a probation period of three to six months to comply.

Key requirements include maintaining comprehensive records of learners, including biometric data, and ensuring minimum health and welfare standards. The policy explicitly bans the practice of sending learners to beg on the streets.

Additionally, centres must provide adequate facilities, including separate learning spaces for male and female learners, and adhere to an approved academic calendar. The reforms aim to address the longstanding issues of neglect and abuse within the Almajiri system, which has faced criticism for its failure to provide formal education.