The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakuleyin, has emphasised the pressing need for government intervention regarding the issues faced by Almajiri and out-of-school children.
He declared these matters to be national concerns that require immediate action from relevant authorities.
Oba Olakunlehin stated this on Friday, during a courtesy visit paid to him by the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education, Dr. Muhammad Sani Idris and his team.
Speaking through High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Olakuleyin warned, “The situation surrounding Almajiri and out-of-school children is a ticking time bomb that could explode if we do not take the necessary steps.”
He advocated a multifaceted approach, stating, “To address this crisis, we must employ traditional, cultural, and religious strategies to combat this anti-developmental challenge and security threat before it escalates.”
In his address, Dr. Muhammad Sani Idris expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to the commission during their visit.
He acknowledged the Olubadan’s stature, noting that he is not only a significant figure in Ibadanland but also a respected monarch throughout Nigeria.
Dr. Idris revealed that President Bola Tinubu had directed him to seek the Olubadan’s influence in reducing the number of Almajiri and out-of-school children, aiming to prevent their recruitment into extremist groups like Boko Haram.
He stressed, “There are over 500,000 Almajiri and more than 20 million out-of-school children in our nation; we must engage meaningfully to deter them from criminal activities.”
Idris urged traditional rulers, through Oba Olakuleyin, to collaborate with all tiers of government to tackle the challenges posed by these vulnerable groups, which threaten the quality of life in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary called on parents and guardians to prioritise the education of their children as well as those in their communities, emphasising that a collective effort is essential for a brighter future for Nigeria.
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