**Jigawa Government Spends N1.5 Billion on Religious Structures Amidst Over 820,000 Out-of-School Children**
*Jigawa, Nigeria – November 30, 2024* – The Jigawa State government, led by Governor Umar Namadi, has come under scrutiny after it was revealed that the state spent a total of N1.5 billion within just three months on the construction and renovation of mosques and other religious buildings. This expenditure was reported in the state’s 2024 budget performance report for the third quarter, posted on the state government’s website.
The budget report shows that N1.04 billion was allocated for the construction of mosques and religious structures, with an additional N458.47 million spent on completing ongoing religious projects. Despite this considerable financial outlay, Jigawa continues to face a severe education crisis, with over 820,000 children between the ages of 3 and 18 out of school, according to a survey by the Education Sector Support Programme in Nigeria (ESSPIN).
Jigawa ranks as the fifth state in Nigeria with the highest number of out-of-school children. Only 16.8% of the children in the state are enrolled in school, a concerning statistic highlighted by Mohammed Farah, Chief of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Kano Field Office. Farah noted that 44% of primary school-age children and 52% of secondary school-age children in Jigawa are not attending school.
This education gap has led to alarmingly low levels of literacy and numeracy, with Farah urging the state legislature to implement significant reforms. He emphasized that addressing these issues is crucial before the next Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), scheduled for 2026/2027.
While the state government’s investment in religious structures continues, critics argue that more focus is needed on tackling the education deficit, which is depriving children of their right to basic education.
The government’s prioritization of religious building projects over addressing the education crisis raises questions about its commitment to addressing the pressing needs of its young population.
