Nigeria Bans Street Begging in Almajiri Education Reform

The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a new National Policy for the Enhancement of Almajiri Education, which prohibits Almajiri learning centres from sending pupils to beg on the streets. Approved by the Federal Ministry of Education, the policy mandates compulsory literacy, numeracy, digital education, and vocational skills as part of the reform of the traditional Qur’anic education system.

It requires the registration of all Almajiri learning centres, biometric capture of learners, and introduces nationally recognized certification for graduates. The policy aims to eradicate street begging associated with the Almajiri system while preserving the religious identity of Qur’anic schools.

It states that no learner shall be sent out to beg, and any centre that violates this will face sanctions. The curriculum will now include foundational education and employable skills, with graduates receiving formal certification for the first time.

The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education will oversee the structured certification process.