Remi Tinubu Seeks Saudi Support To Tackle Almajiri, Out-of-School Children Crisis

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to partner with Nigeria in addressing the growing challenge of Almajiri and out-of-school children through an education system that combines Islamic and Western learning.

Mrs. Tinubu made the appeal while receiving the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Mohammed Al-Balawi, at the State House in Abuja.

She said millions of vulnerable children, particularly those in the Almajiri system, deserve access to quality education that integrates Arabic teachings with formal Western education, describing it as a critical step toward securing the nation’s future.

The First Lady stressed that reforming the Almajiri education system would not only improve the welfare of the children but also help address insecurity by giving them better opportunities.

“I work with women and vulnerable children in society, and my heart goes out to the Almajiri children in Northern Nigeria. I believe they need better care,” she said.

She added that providing formal education for the children would create a more secure future for Nigeria and called for a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia to support the initiative.

Mrs. Tinubu also commended the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, expressing optimism that the partnership would continue to grow.

Responding, Ambassador Al-Balawi said he was pleased with the warm reception he has received since arriving in Nigeria five months ago.

He noted that his engagements with members of the Federal Executive Council had strengthened bilateral relations and expressed confidence that both countries would deepen cooperation in areas that promote economic growth and mutual development.

According to the ambassador, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia share historical ties rooted in religion, culture and common aspirations for stronger economic cooperation.