The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called upon President Bola Tinubu to address the growing concern of out-of-school children in northern Nigeria.
In a recent interview, AYCF President Alhaji Yerima Shettima emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of Almajiri children, as their neglect could potentially make them vulnerable to anti-state elements.
Shettima stated, “President Tinubu must address the pressing issue of unemployment in the region and devise strategies to reduce the number of Almajiri children roaming the streets of the north. I view them as a looming threat and a potential crisis waiting to unfold.”
He further cautioned politicians, saying, “It is imperative that they work towards creating a just society where all children, including those of their neighbors, have access to education and the opportunity to build a better future for themselves. Neglected children can become a time bomb that jeopardizes the peace and security of our society.”
Shettima recommended that President Tinubu collaborate with northern governors to combat the menace of out-of-school children effectively.
“The issue of out-of-school children must be given due attention. The president should formulate policies and engage with state governments to secure their support in enrolling these street children into schools,” he urged.
To mitigate the problem, Shettima stressed the need for the government to establish skill acquisition programs that would benefit those unable to attend traditional schools.
This approach, he argued, is essential to ensure the productivity of marginalized individuals and their contribution to the region’s well-being, ultimately reducing potential security challenges.
Shettima concluded by sounding a warning, “Failure to address these critical issues may result in the emergence of more Boko Haram-like groups in the near future.”
