First Lady Seeks Saudi Support To Educate Almajiri, Out-Of-School Children

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for greater support to provide formal education for Almajiri and out-of-school children.

The First Lady pointed out that, for the Almajiri in particular, the initiative would combine Arabic teachings with Western education.

She made the call while receiving the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria, Amb. Yousef Mohammed Al-Balawi, at the State House, Abuja.

In a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, Senator Tinubu said the collaboration would help integrate Islamic teachings with formal Western education, aimed at securing the future of this group of children.

The First Lady also called for a strategic partnership between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia to reform the Almajiri education system.

“I work with women and vulnerable children in society. My heart goes out to the Almajiri children in Northern Nigeria. I believe they need better care.

“This is because of the insecurity challenges facing the nation. If that particular group of children is not taken care of, I don’t know what might happen.

“I believe we can begin to give them formal education. If we are able to do that, the future of Nigeria will be much more secure.”

Senator Tinubu said both countries have enjoyed strong bilateral relations over the years and appreciated the Ambassador for the visit.

In his remarks, Amb. Yousef Mohammed Al-Balawi said he has spent five months in Nigeria and expressed satisfaction with the warm reception he has received from the government and its officials.

He said he had met with some members of the Federal Executive Council, adding that those engagements would ultimately contribute positively to the growth of both nations.

The ambassador said he looked forward to stronger ties between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia that would further enhance the economic growth of both countries.

“As you are aware, our countries have a strong relationship. We share a long history, as well as religion, culture, and the potential to further strengthen our relationship.

“Our nations share a common ambition to improve our economies.”

The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria was accompanied on the visit to the First Lady by the Embassy’s Chief of Staff, Mohammed Bukar.