The Jigawa State Government has come under scrutiny for allocating N1.5 billion in the past three months toward the construction of new religious centres across the state, while over 820,000 children remain out of school, according to recent reports.
The funds, earmarked for the development of mosques and other religious structures, have raised concerns among local stakeholders, education advocates, and parents who argue that more attention should be directed towards addressing the alarming number of out-of-school children in the state.
Jigawa State, located in northern Nigeria, continues to face a significant educational crisis, with an estimated 820,000 children not attending school, a situation compounded by poverty, insufficient infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teachers. Despite these challenges, the state government has focused a significant portion of its budget on religious infrastructure development in the name of promoting cultural and religious values.
Governor Badaru Abubakar, in a recent address, defended the allocation of resources for religious centres, stating that such projects are important for fostering community development, peace, and social cohesion. However, critics argue that the government’s priorities must shift to address the educational needs of the state's vulnerable children.
“The alarming number of out-of-school children is a clear signal that the government’s efforts in tackling education challenges are not meeting the mark. Allocating such a large sum to religious centres rather than investing in schools, teachers, and educational resources leaves our children without the necessary tools to secure a better future,” said Amina Mohammed, an education advocate based in Dutse.
Local organizations have called on the government to reallocate funds to support education initiatives, including the construction of schools, training of teachers, and the provision of educational materials. Many also stress the need for a comprehensive strategy that integrates both religious and academic education, ensuring that the children of Jigawa receive well-rounded opportunities for growth and development.