First Lady Seeks More Support for Almajiri, Out of School Children’s Education
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for more assistance to provide Almajiri and out of school children with formal education.
The First Lady pointed out that, for the Almajiri in particular, such an 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.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the collaboration would help integrate Islamic teachings with formal Western education, aimed at protecting the future of these children.
The First Lady also called for a strategic partnership between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia to overhaul the Almajiri education system.
“I work with women and vulnerable children in society. My heart goes out to the Almajiri children up North. I believe they need better care.”
She added: “This is because most of the insecurity challenges in the nation, if that particular group of children is not taken care of, I don’t know what might happen.”
“I believe we can still start to give them formal education. If we are able to do that, the future of Nigeria will be well secured.”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu said she understood that both countries had enjoyed good bilateral relations over the years and appreciated the Ambassador for the visit.
Amb. Yousef Mohammed Al Balawi, in his remarks, explained that he had spent five months in Nigeria and expressed satisfaction with the way the government and its officials had received him.
He said he had met with some members of the Federal Executive Council, adding that their engagements would ultimately reflect positively on the growth of both nations.
The Ambassador said he was looking forward to stronger ties between both countries that would reflect positively on their economic growth.
“As you are aware, our countries have a strong relationship. We share historical ties, and our nations have a lot in common in terms of religion, culture and potentials to improve our relationship and get it back in shape.”
“Our nations have strong common ambitions 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 Chief of Staff at the Embassy, Mohammed Bukar.
