By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku, Lafia
In the evolving narrative of educational transformation across Northern Nigeria, especially the integration of the Almajiri education system into mainstream learning, Senator Umar Tanko Al-Makura stands out as a pillar of vision and execution.
The former Governor of Nasarawa State and current national figure in basic education has distinguished himself as the undisputed hero of the Bilingual Almajiri Model School Project, an innovative federal initiative supported by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Leading a New Educational Frontier
The Bilingual Education Programme, which currently spans nine states—Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Osun—aims to harmonize Islamic and Western education. But it is in Nasarawa State, under the leadership and legacy of Al-Makura, that the project has found a fertile ground for accelerated implementation.
Thanks to his foresight, model schools are already under development in Lafia, Wamba, and Nasarawa Local Government Areas, symbolizing a strategic departure from exclusion to structured empowerment for Almajiri children.
A Lifeline for the Forgotten
The Almajiri system, though grounded in Islamic tradition, has in recent decades bred generations of children left behind—roaming the streets in search of survival. With an estimated 10 million Almajirai in Northern Nigeria, the need for reform could no longer be ignored.
The bilingual school initiative is not just a policy, it is a human development revolution. By integrating Qur’anic education with basic literacy, numeracy, and vocational training, the programme seeks to arm Almajiri children with the tools needed to become productive members of society.
Al-Makura’s Unrelenting Commitment
Senator Al-Makura’s contribution goes beyond early advocacy. As Governor, he laid the foundation for Nasarawa’s participation.
Today, as a senior stakeholder in the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), he has used his influence to attract technical partnerships and funding that keep the vision alive, not only in Nasarawa but across all participating states.
His work continues to impact thousands of vulnerable children, earning him nationwide recognition as a silent achiever whose results speak louder than politics.
The Power of Continuity
In a commendable show of leadership synergy, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has embraced the initiative with seriousness and consistency. His administration’s support, through land allocation, supervision, and enabling policies—has ensured seamless implementation.
This alignment between past and present leadership has transformed Nasarawa into a model state for bilingual education reform, driven by continuity, stability, and shared commitment.
The Road Ahead
With construction ongoing and anticipation rising, all eyes are on Senator Al-Makura and the relevant stakeholders to ensure timely completion and operational rollout of the model schools across Nasarawa’s three senatorial districts.
The expected impact, on education, community security, youth empowerment, and economic inclusion—promises to be a defining legacy for the state and beyond.
Conclusion
Senator Umar Tanko Al-Makura remains the face of bilingual education reform in Northern Nigeria. His strategic leadership, vision, and steadfast implementation have laid a path for inclusive, quality education for generations to come.
As Nasarawa leads by example, the nation owes gratitude to leaders, past and present, who remain committed to giving every Nigerian child, regardless of background, a fair shot at the future.
