Niger to return Almajirai to state of origin

Niger State government said it has completed arrangements to evacuate all Almajirai to their states of origin.

The Secretary to the state government, Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, in a statement on Monday, said the move follows Northern Governors’ Forum agreement to evacuate Almajirai to their states of origin in view of the risk of contracting COVID-19.

Matane, who is also Chairman, Niger State Task Force on COVID-19, explained that the evacuation became necessary considering the unhealthy condition, congestion and filthy environment they were exposed to.

He enjoined proprietors of Almajiri schools in the state to, as a matter of urgency, cooperate with the state government.

He said the exercise would be carried out with vigor until the government is certain that all Almajiri children have been returned to their various states of origin and reunite with their parents.