The Federal Government has rolled out a sweeping reform of the Almajiri education system, outlawing the age-old practice of sending pupils to beg on the streets while introducing strict oversight measures, including mandatory biometric registration for every learner.
The new policy, approved by the Federal Ministry of Education, establishes a binding framework that prohibits all Almajiri learning centres from allowing their pupils to roam the streets for alms or menial work. Schools that violate this provision will face sanctions and potential shutdown.
In place of street begging, the government is introducing a revamped curriculum that combines traditional Qur’anic teachings with literacy, numeracy, digital skills, and vocational training. The goal is to produce graduates who are both religiously grounded and economically productive.
For the first time, learners who complete the programme will receive formal certification recognised by the state. To ensure accountability, all Almajiri schools must now register with relevant authorities and maintain detailed records — including biometric data — of every pupil under their care.
The policy also sets minimum welfare standards, requiring health screenings for learners, proper sanitation facilities, separate learning spaces for male and female pupils, and improved hostel conditions for boarding schools. Registered schools will become eligible for government support, including learning materials, healthcare, and feeding programmes.
The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education will lead implementation, working alongside state governments, local education bodies, traditional rulers, and community leaders.
The reform is being hailed as the most ambitious federal intervention yet in a system long plagued by neglect, abuse, and exploitation. Authorities say the biometric registration component, in particular, will help track pupil populations, curb child trafficking, and ensure no child is left behind in Nigeria’s drive to reduce its out-of-school children figure.
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