In a bold and unprecedented move aimed at transforming the lives of vulnerable children, New Horizons Nigeria has unveiled its Almajiri-to-Tech initiative, a programme designed to empower Almajiris with digital skills and turn them into computer technicians within just 90 days.
The launch, held on Monday in Abuja, marked the start of training for 21 Almajiris under the programme, which is part of a broader vision to remove one million Almajiris from the streets of Nigeria within the next year.
Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Nigeria, Tim Akano, disclosed that the initiative, tagged “From the Streets to Technicians in 90 Days”, seeks to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to earn a sustainable living in the digital economy.
Akano explained that the training package, which cost the institute N50 million, covers all essentials including training, meals, clothing, tools, and logistics for the trainees.
He emphasized that the programme goes beyond skill acquisition, framing it as a strategic investment in national development and security.
He said:
“If we win this battle, the billions spent on fighting insecurity can be redirected to productive purposes. My calculations show that empowering Almajiris could add as much as $20 billion to Nigeria’s GDP within 14 to 15 months”.
The programme, which begins in Abuja as a pilot, is set to expand to other cities, including Kano, Kaduna, and Zamfara. Akano warned of the looming demographic challenge, noting that the current population of 15 million Almajiris could double by 2030 if no intervention is made, creating social and economic strains even in elite urban centres.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Abdullahi Bukar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People Expertise and Excellence Foundation, praised the initiative as a timely solution to social exclusion and national security issues.
He highlighted that empowering Almajiris with practical digital skills not only ensures sustainable livelihoods but also integrates them productively into society, reducing vulnerability to crime and extremism.
Bukar urged stronger collaboration between the private sector, civil society, and government agencies to scale similar interventions nationwide.
Dr. Mairo Mandara, Founder of Girl Child Concern, described the programme as a practical model for addressing vulnerability among disadvantaged children.
She emphasized that digital empowerment would foster self-reliance, dignity, and social inclusion, warning that failure to intervene could turn the situation into a ticking time bomb with serious national consequences.
One of the trainees, Fatima Umar, expressed heartfelt gratitude to New Horizons and its partners, stating that the training had given her hope for a brighter future. She pledged to make good use of the skills acquired to become self-reliant and positively contribute to society.
With initiatives like the Almajiri-to-Tech programme, New Horizons Nigeria is demonstrating that meaningful change begins with investing in human capital, particularly among the most vulnerable.
Through skills development, mentorship, and strategic planning, the streets of Nigeria may soon witness a generation of empowered young people ready to contribute to national growth and stability.
This report was produced by the editorial team at The Gazette News | Independent. Human-Centred. Impactful in line with our commitment to accuracy, fairness, and responsible journalism. Information in this article is based on verified sources available at the time of publication. The Gazette News | Independent. Human-Centred. Impactful may update the story as new facts emerge or additional context becomes available.
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