The Federal Government has introduced stricter enforcement measures for Almajiri learning centres across Nigeria, warning operators that failure to comply with newly established operational standards could result in sanctions, including closure.
The reforms, encapsulated in the National Policy on the Enhancement of Almajiri Education, are designed to regulate and modernize the system, which has long been criticised for neglect, exploitation, and inadequate educational outcomes. The policy applies to all Almajiri learning centres nationwide, including those for boys and girls, and seeks to ensure that the welfare, safety, and education of learners are placed at the forefront of operations.
At the core of the policy is a comprehensive set of mandatory standards that all centres must meet. Each learning centre will undergo a probation period of three to six months to achieve compliance, after which failure to meet the requirements may result in sanctions, including suspension or closure. Implementation of the framework is overseen by the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education, which will carry out regular inspections and monitoring to ensure adherence.
Under the new rules, all centres must be registered with the relevant state or local authorities and maintain detailed records of every learner, including biometric data, to strengthen accountability and oversight. Operators are required to submit periodic reports and allow routine inspections by government agencies. The policy explicitly prohibits the long-standing practice of sending learners to beg on the streets, with strict penalties for centres found in violation.
The government has also established clear welfare and health standards for learners and facilitators. All individuals involved in the system must undergo periodic medical checks at recognised health facilities, while learning centres are expected to maintain links with nearby healthcare providers and be equipped with basic first aid kits. New entrants must meet minimum personal requirements, including clothing, footwear, eating utensils, and appropriate learning materials, ensuring that children begin their education with basic necessities.
Age restrictions have been clearly defined to promote appropriate learning environments. Day centres are open to children aged four to 18, while boarding facilities cater to those aged 12 to 18. To improve educational outcomes, the policy mandates a uniform and expanded curriculum that integrates literacy, numeracy, and relevant digital skills, both for learners and facilitators.
Infrastructure standards have also been introduced. Each centre must have adequate water supply, proper ventilation, and at least one toilet for every 25 learners. In addition, gender-sensitive provisions require separate learning spaces for male and female students to ensure privacy and safety. Learning centres are now required to follow approved academic calendars and make their operations accessible for monitoring by local, state, or federal authorities.
Officials emphasise that the sanctions regime is intended to compel adherence and eliminate exploitative practices, while recognising that the government does not seek to take over Almajiri learning centres. Rather, strict enforcement of these standards aims to safeguard children, improve the quality of education, and reduce the number of out-of-school youths across the country.
The Almajiri system, which has existed for centuries in northern Nigeria, traditionally involves young boys leaving their homes to study the Quran under the guidance of a Mallam, often living in small hostels or with their teachers and relying on community donations for food and basic needs. Over time, the system has faced widespread criticism for exposing children to poverty, neglect, and street begging, while limiting their access to formal education. Previous regulatory efforts struggled due to inconsistent oversight, inadequate funding, and resistance in some communities.
Reform advocates argue that formalising the Almajiri system, integrating modern education, and enforcing robust welfare and operational standards are essential to protect vulnerable children, improve learning outcomes, and significantly reduce the number of out-of-school children in northern Nigeria.
Post comments (0)