North-East Governors Unveil Plan to Integrate Almajiris into Formal Education as Part of Security and Development Strategy

Governors of the North-East region have announced plans to integrate Almajiris and out-of-school children into the formal education system. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to curb insecurity and revive the education sector, which has suffered dramatically due to more than a decade of Boko Haram insurgency.

At the 11th North East Governors’ Forum meeting in Damaturu, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas articulated the Forum’s position. He stressed that addressing security issues in the region requires more than just military intervention—it demands a holistic strategy that includes educational reform.

The approach addresses fundamental causes of insecurity, such as youth unemployment, through vocational training, improving road infrastructure, enhancing education opportunities, and reducing poverty.

He noted that to achieve this, the Forum resolved to collaborate with the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education (NCAOOSCE) by providing office spaces in each state, supporting the enrolment of Almajiri and out-of-school children in formal schools, offering vocational and technical education, and developing a unified approach to tackle the challenge in the subregion.

The governors reiterated their commitment to common goals of subregional significance. They vowed to work closely with the Federal Government to tackle security challenges.

They voiced growing concern over the rise in insurgent activities and urged security agencies and community leaders to reevaluate their strategies.

The Forum urged the President to prioritise abandoned road projects critical for alleviating poverty and insecurity.

The governors committed to creating investment opportunities, promoting agriculture, tackling climate change, and driving industrialisation to provide employment for youths vulnerable to insurgent recruitment.

The North East Governors’ Forum also called on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to engage more actively with state governments on development needs.

The Forum committed to supporting the Nigerian Law School, Yola Campus, and partnering with the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education to facilitate the enrolment of Almajiris and out-of-school children in formal schools.