The health insurance scheme in Nasarawa State has recently enrolled 130 Almajiri teenagers. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to improve the healthcare coverage for these young residents.
The State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Aishatu Ibrahim, highlighted this gesture and also mentioned that 80 Almajiri children have been enrolled in public schools to ensure they receive a good education.
In addition, the government is working towards engaging the Almajiris in meaningful ventures for their future, aiming to provide them with opportunities rather than allowing them to roam the streets begging for alms.
The Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Yahaya Bawa-Ubam, shared that the agency aims to enrol 500,000 residents by 2027. Currently, over 218,000 individuals are benefiting from the healthcare services provided under this scheme.
Moreover, the Director of Education at the Almajiri Liberation Movement, Abdullahi Mohammed, expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts in safeguarding the health of the Almajiris and enrolling them in public schools. The organization is also collaborating with the government to enrol at least 260 Almajiris in schools to enhance their knowledge and learning capacities.
One of the major challenges faced by the organization is the lack of cooperation from the caregivers (Mallams) in providing necessary details about the Almajiris. Mohammed emphasized the importance of proper documentation and cooperation from the mallams to ensure that the Almajiris receive the support they need for a better future.
