The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has set up a special committee to tackle the growing presence of Almajiri children within Abuja.
This was disclosed by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, during a press briefing following a closed-door security meeting chaired by the minister.
According to Disu, the initiative is aimed at gathering detailed intelligence on the activities of Almajiri children, with a particular focus on their welfare, education, and social integration. The move seeks to ensure that their presence in the capital city does not pose security risks while also addressing concerns about their well-being.
While dismissing speculation about heightened security threats linked to the Almajiri system, the police commissioner urged Abuja residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
Composition and Mandate of the Committee
The newly formed committee includes representatives from:
- The Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
- The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- The Department of State Services (DSS)
- Other relevant government agencies
The task force has been given two weeks to submit a detailed report outlining the situation and recommending appropriate measures to manage the growing Almajiri population.
Meanwhile, Disu also confirmed that the FCT police command had recently arrested five suspects in connection with various crimes across the city.
Wike Urges Nigerians to Be Patient With Tinubu’s Economic Policies
Minister Nyesom Wike has called on Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring them that ongoing policies are designed to tackle economic challenges and bring long-term relief.
Wike made the appeal on Wednesday in Ibadan, Oyo State, during a condolence visit to Governor Seyi Makinde over the passing of his elder brother, Sunday Makinde, who died on January 24, 2025, at the age of 65.
Accompanying Wike on the visit were several notable political figures, including:
- Former Governors Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Samuel Ortom (Benue)
- Senators Sandy Onor, Philip Aduda, Olaka Nwogu, Mao Ohuabunwa, and Chibudom Nwuche
During his remarks, Wike acknowledged the economic hardships many Nigerians are currently facing but stressed that Tinubu’s policies are structured to yield positive results over time.
‘Economic Recovery Takes Time’ – Wike
Expressing optimism about the administration’s efforts, Wike said:
“I have always told people to be patient with this government. Our country has faced significant economic challenges in the past, and while progress may seem slow, we must recognize the efforts being made to improve the situation.”
He further emphasized that economic recovery is not instant, stating:
“Nigerians often forget where we were and the efforts currently in place to turn things around. We need to give these policies time to take effect. It’s not an overnight miracle, but in the end, we will achieve what we set out to accomplish.”
His remarks come amid growing public concern over rising inflation, cost of living, and economic instability. The Tinubu administration has rolled out several fiscal policies and economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, though many citizens continue to feel the immediate impact of these measures.
As discussions around the effectiveness of these policies continue, Wike’s appeal suggests that the government is urging patience while working to implement long-term solutions for national economic recovery.
