13m out-of-school children: Women in da’awah urges restructuring of almajiri schools



Women in Da’awah, an umbrella group of Muslim women non-government organisations, has called for restructuring of almajiri schools in Nigeria to address the over 13 million out of school children. 
Speaking in Kaduna on Thursday ahead of its 14th Annual National Conference, which kicks off in Kaduna with the theme: “Believers! Enter wholly into Islam and do not follow in the footsteps of Satan for he is your open enemy”, the Abuja based women group with branches in 18 Northern states, lamented crimes such as kidnapping, armed banditry, political thuggery that have pervaded the country. 


National President of Women in Da’awah, Hajiya Maryam Othman, told journalists in Kaduna that the three-day programme entails lectures, discussions, meetings and youth session, as well as visits to designated locations to give succour and support to the vulnerable.
“We call on government at all levels to intensify concerted efforts in addressing challenges threatening our communities, rekindling hopes in the populace and providing opportunities to actualise them. We especially call for the restructuring of almajiri schools to give all children a chance in living purposeful lives. 


“We call on citizens to fulfil their obligations to Allah in words and deeds by imbibing noble citizenship values, excellent communal relations, community development and contributing to the betterment of their own societies. As Muslims we are expected to be shining examples in doing good and enjoining it. We should revive that. 


“Indeed 2019 has reached an unwholesome height as one of those years which showcased and featured series of dislocations among the populace, including kidnapping, banditry, political thuggery and the negative manifestations of election season. 
“The intent in Kaduna 2019 revolves around reconnecting with the spirit and substance of the Qur’an in word and deed, redirecting our priorities and remaining firm in the hope that indeed things will get better by our effort and commitment and not by chance or miracles.”


According to Hajiya Maryam Othman, the First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari and Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna state are some of the guests expected at the main event on Saturday. Some of the lecture topics include, Reconnecting with Allah through our actions – a guide for Muslims; The almajiri phenomenon in Northern Nigeria and the burden of society.

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