Bauchi State Govt spends ₦20m monthly on Almajiri, Tsangaya and Imams’ allowances in the state.

Bauchi State Government has said that, it spends about ₦20 million every month on allowances for selected Almajirai, Tsangaya centres and Imams in the state, as part of efforts to strengthen religious education and promote social stability.

The Special Adviser to the state Governor on Religious Affairs, Alhaji Mai Sule Zirami, disclosed this during a visit to newly-appointed Emirs in the state.

He explained that, beneficiaries of the initiative were drawn from the 20 local government areas, following assessments carried out in collaboration with community and religious leaders.

Alhaji Sule Zirami noted that the financial support is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve the welfare of vulnerable children in the Almajiri system and enhance the operations of Tsangaya schools.

According to him, the allowances are designed to strengthen traditional religious institutions and ensure that young learners receive more structured education and care.

He emphasized that Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed’s administration considers the welfare of Almajirai a top priority, especially as national discussions continue on reforming the almajiri education model.

The initiative, he added, aligns with ongoing reforms in Bauchi State aimed at integrating basic literacy, hygiene and vocational skills into the Tsangaya learning environment.

Alhaji Mai Sule Zirami urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the allowances and continue to pray for peace, stability and progress in Bauchi State.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deepening partnerships with religious and traditional institutions.

During the visit, the Emirs commended the government for the intervention, describing it as a significant step toward reducing street begging and improving educational outcomes.

They pledged the continued support of traditional institutions for programmes that promote youth development and social cohesion.

Community stakeholders have also expressed optimism that the government’s intervention will address long-standing challenges associated with the almajiri system, including child neglect and inadequate funding of religious schools.

Some Tsangaya instructors stressed the need for better infrastructure, teacher training and learning materials, urging the state government to sustain and expand the programme.

They noted that, consistent funding and strong community participation will be crucial to the long-term success of the initiative.