Alhajji Muhammad Saad Abubakar III stresses that Islam prohibits begging during a key Kebbi State event.
The Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar III, has urged stakeholders to enrol street children in formal schools. He emphasized that religious teachings do not permit begging, making education an urgent priority.
The announcement was made in Argungu during the official takeover of the Argungu Orphanage Home. The Kebbi State Government also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development to tackle the out-of-school children crisis, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
State officials, traditional leaders, and educational authorities gathered to launch new educational partnerships and vocational training initiatives. These collaborative efforts aim to provide vulnerable children with sustainable futures, security, and professional care across the region.
Tackling out-of-school children in Nigeria
Abubakar, who serves as Grand Patron and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development, expressed deep concern over children roaming the streets. He stated that taking minors off the streets and into classrooms is vital for their development.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, explained that the collaborative programmes address critical social challenges. He noted that the Universal Basic Education Commission partnership was adopted to improve basic education access through traditional and religious institutions.
Argungu Orphanage Home handover and funding
Kebbi State Governor Dr Nasir Idris, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, described the initiatives as major milestones. The formal transfer of the Argungu Orphanage Home ensures proper supervision, professional care, and sustainable funding under relevant laws.
The governor acknowledged the consistent monthly contribution of N1 million from his wife, Hajiya Zainab Nasare-Idris, which has sustained the orphanage over the past three years. The facility was originally built by an anonymous philanthropist from the Argungu Emirate.
Vocational training for Qur’anic schools
As part of the broader educational reforms, 150 Qur'anic schools selected from the four emirates of Kebbi State will benefit from targeted skills acquisition. These schools previously participated in the Better Education Service Delivery for All programme.
Each participating school will receive three sets of vocational training equipment for carpentry, tailoring, and shoemaking. The initiative will distribute 450 vocational tools and train 450 pupils to serve as future trainers in their local communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Sultan of Sokoto say about street children?
Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar III urged stakeholders to enrol children roaming the streets in formal schools, stating clearly that Islam does not permit begging.
What was signed during the Argungu event in Kebbi State?
The Kebbi State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development to tackle the out-of-school children challenge.
How many Qur’anic schools are receiving vocational equipment?
A total of 150 Qur'anic schools selected from the four emirates of Kebbi State will receive vocational training equipment for carpentry, tailoring, and shoemaking.
Who supports the Argungu Orphanage Home financially?
The orphanage has been run on private contributions, notably including a monthly N1 million donation by the Kebbi State governor's wife, Hajiya Zainab Nasare-Idris.
