Victoria Mgbanwa
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Gombe State chapter, has urged the state legislature to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the proposed bill to establish the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Agency.
Raising concerns over perceived exclusion, CAN emphasized the need for broader representation in shaping policies that affect all communities. The association’s chairman, Joseph Shinga, led a delegation to the Gombe State House of Assembly on Monday, where they submitted a formal protest letter.
Shinga stressed that while addressing the plight of out-of-school children is commendable, the bill should not marginalize any group. He pointed out that CAN representatives were not invited to the public hearing on the bill, despite the potential implications for Christian communities in the state.
“We came here to express the concerns of Christians regarding the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Bill before the House of Assembly.
“The Christians have reviewed the bill, raised concerns, and mandated me to present these concerns to the chairman of the House Committee on Education.
“The letter outlines fears and concerns regarding the bill.
“We want the House to consider the composition of the board and clearly define the term ‘out-of-school.’
“If given the chance, we are ready to submit our own proposal for an agency, but we do not want duplication. This is why we ask for exclusivity,” he stated.
CAN also expressed willingness to contribute to the legislative process, offering to present a proposal for a separate agency to avoid duplication of efforts. The association called on Speaker Mohammed Luggerrewo and lawmakers to address their concerns before passing the bill.
As deliberations continue, the call for an inclusive approach highlights the importance of ensuring that all voices—religious and otherwise—are heard in shaping policies that impact the state’s education system.
