The Kano State Government has inaugurated a seven-member committee to repatriate street children (Almajarai) to their respective home states.
The committee, headed by the Commander General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Daurawa, was formed in response to growing concerns about potential security risks posed by the increasing number of street children in the state.
READ ALSO: Kano police command investigates murder of minor by Almajiri
During the inauguration ceremony, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa, who represented Governor Abba Yusuf, described the initiative as a step in the right direction. He expressed concern over the rising influx of people from areas grappling with insecurity, such as banditry and kidnappings, which has resulted in an increase in street children in Kano.
Dr. Baffa pointed out that many of these individuals had taken refuge in abandoned public and private buildings, using these spaces to plan and commit various crimes.
“The current administration prioritizes the security and peaceful nature of the state,” Dr. Baffa stated. “The government is committed to making Kano free from criminal activities. Hence, street children must be repatriated to their states and local government areas of origin.”
Sheikh Aminu Daurawa, the committee chairman, noted that recent protests in the state revealed the extent of the problem, as many street children were seen engaging in violent activities.
He highlighted that the Hisbah Board had identified several locations where homeless individuals, including children, were living in deplorable conditions, raising concerns about the long-term implications for community safety.
Daurawa assured the public of the committee’s dedication to addressing the issue effectively. “We are committed to working tirelessly to achieve the goals set by the government,” he added.
Additionally, a statement from the Cabinet Office spokesperson, Musa Tanko, outlined the committee’s primary responsibilities, which include organizing the repatriation process and ensuring that children are returned safely to their places of origin.
