By Gbenga Akingbule
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum on Wednesday stated that his administration will not tolerate any form of child molestation from educators, parents, guardians, and community leaders.
Gatekeepers News reports that Zulum had a few days ago ordered the arrest and prosecution of a man, Bukar Modu, seen in a viral video allegedly molesting a child.
Zulum urged all concerned to treat all children, including Almajiri ( Tsangaya Education Leaners), with respect and dignity.
Prof. Zulum made the statement while presenting working tools to 150 almajirai students trained in vocational skills by his administration during an occasion held at the Muna Vocational Enterprise Institute in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The governor was particularly furious at the rising cases of molestation of children in the guise of teaching Islamic education. He said his administration would not tolerate such an inhuman attitude.
According to the governor, “I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice. This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners,” Zulum said.
Prof Zulum also revealed at the occasion that the training given to 150 almajiri covered a variety of trades, including electrical installation and repair work, solar installation and repair work, leatherwork, welding, carpentry and building construction.
The initiative also includes cash support to enable beneficiaries to start trades and contribute to society’s development. It seeks to enhance individual capabilities, uplift communities, and provide almajirai with sustainable pathways to economic independence
Governor Zulum emphasised that his administration would continue to foster opportunities for the almajiri learners to secure a brighter future.
“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into reality.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he stated.
The Chairman of Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Aliyu Ahmad Abulfatahi, said the programme was unveiled in 2023 as part of Zulum’s resolve to address the challenges faced by almajiri children who are traditionally engaged in Islamic schooling and often lack access to formal education and opportunities.
Sheikh Kalifa noted that the training was organised in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board.
The state Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, who was represented by the Special Adviser in the ministry, Dr Bukar Tijjani, said that besides the training, the ministry had partnered with colleges, including the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies, to provide certification for almajiri learners.
