By Joy Odigie, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Digital technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data visualisation, continues to reshape journalism, enhancing storytelling capabilities and challenging traditional reporting methods.

These advancements contribute to a more informed society where diverse voices are heard and valued.

In this evolving media landscape, Nigerian female journalists are at the forefront, leveraging digital technologies to drive innovation and safeguard the socio-economic interests of society.

This is one of the core objectives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

As the NUJ marked its 70th anniversary on March 15, analysts emphasise the importance of recognising the transformation journalism in Nigeria has undergone.

Female journalists, in particular, have played a pivotal role in driving change through innovation, digital storytelling, and the use of AI to redefine the profession.

Their contributions are shaping the future of journalism in Nigeria, demonstrating resilience, creativity, and a commitment to press freedom.

As digital media continues to evolve, Nigerian female journalists are harnessing its power to tell impactful stories.

One of such journalists is Olubunmi Yekini, a veteran multimedia journalist with nearly 20 years of experience. 

Yekini has worked with Radio Nigeria, Radio Now, and currently works as a self-employed mediaprenuer, publisher, and podcast specialist.

“I am passionate about data-driven stories as they simplify and elucidate issues, lending credibility and accuracy to my stories,” Yekini said in an interview with Al Jazeera in 2024.

She actively incorporates digital technology into her storytelling, using platforms such as TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram to create short videos featuring text, charts, and images that amplify her newsroom’s reports and programmes.

In 2019, she took part in a collaborative project on Lagos’ Makoko slum, sponsored by Code for Africa and its partners.

Through a radio documentary, she shed light on the struggles of waterfront communities and later used audiograms and short videos to publicise the report on social media.

Building on this wave of digital transformation, another prominent figure in the field is Titilope Fadare.

Known for her expertise in multimedia, podcasting, and AI storytelling, she has worked with Premium Times and SciDev.Net, where she currently serves as Assistant Production Editor (Podcast).

Fadare leverages generative AI tools to create story videos, showcasing the vast potential AI offers in enhancing journalism.

One of such videos featured the Nigerian Professor, Adeyemi Ademowo discussing the importance of teaching children in rural areas in their mother tongue.

This insightful piece gained important insights across social media.

Beyond her work in journalism, Fadare is committed to training the next generation of media professionals.

She organises free mobile journalism workshops, empowering journalists to produce high-quality multimedia content using only their smartphones.

This approach has democratised video production, making it more accessible and cost-effective.

Her contributions have not gone unnoticed.

She won the 2021 Facebook Africa Video Storytellers programme and was shortlisted among the top five in the Business and Economy category of the PwC Media Awards 2021.

She was one of the winners of Nigeria’s Best Women Reporter of the Year at the ReportHer Awards in 2023.

Beyond individual achievements, female journalists in Nigeria are using technology to break long-standing barriers in the media industry.

Their work extends beyond storytelling; they are challenging misinformation, promoting gender inclusion, and influencing policy and economic outcomes.

A standout figure in this movement is Anita Eboigbe, Chief Operating Officer at Big Cabal Media; the publishers of TechCabal and Zikoko.

She is widely recognised for her leadership and innovative storytelling projects.

“My work bridges the intersection of strategy, leadership, execution, and innovation, empowering teams to tell impactful stories and build data-driven products that shape conversations across Africa and beyond,” Eboigbe wrote on her LinkedIn page.

Other journalists, such as Magdalene Ukuedojor of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), are also advocating for the power of data-driven journalism.

“I do more solutions journalism using data visualisation. When you use digital tools to tell your story in videos and pictorial forms, it explains it better; people relate with it better,” she said.

She further explained how audience engagement has changed over the years.

“The attention span of people is not so long anymore. So just writing long texts won’t get people to know what you are talking about. AI tools and digital technology make life easier”.

Similarly, Blessing Oladunjoye, publisher of BONews Services and an advocate for women, persons with disabilities, and children, emphasises the importance of accessibility in journalism.

“Multimedia stories make it easier for target audiences across diverse marginalised groups to read and understand.

“It also helps drive impact, as decision-makers can grasp the core of investigations by viewing the visualisations,” she explained.

While some fear that AI may replace human jobs in journalism, others see it as a tool for enhancement rather than a threat.

Chioma Obinagwam, Editor-in-Chief of Confiance News, is among those who embrace AI as a valuable asset.

“Digital technology has impacted my work greatly. Data visualisation amplifies the stories that I write, giving them deeper meaning for my audience.

“AI has also been helpful. It is handy when you’re researching a topic; it often helps with sources and backgrounding stories.

“However, I would like to state that it doesn’t replace that human touch in your work. There’s a place for AI and a place for you, the writer. It only enhances my work; it doesn’t do the entire work for me”.

Obinagwam also praised organisations like Code for Africa for their role in empowering female journalists through training and mentorship.

“The training they provide, the resources, tools, and mentoring are invaluable and have improved the quality of my stories,” she said.

Albeit the strides made, Nigerian female journalists continue to face obstacles, including limited access to resources, gender disparities, and online harassment.

Ukuedojor highlighted the financial barriers that hinder the adoption of digital tools in journalism.

“The biggest challenge I face using digital tools is access to data subscription and work tools.

“So, these things are not cheap. You need good tools to do good videos, you need a good camera and phone, and it’s all about money,” she explained.

She urged organisations to support journalists by providing digital tools, training, and data subscriptions.

“Give us tools, data subscriptions, opportunities, and grants, and we will work. Organisations can partner with journalists to offer free or subsidised data.

“There’s so much to cover in Nigeria; our traditions, cultures, and the solutions happening all around us. With funding, we will go out there and tell these stories,” she urged.

In a world where journalism is rapidly evolving, Efe Omordia, a Nigerian female journalist, has embraced the shift from traditional media to tech-driven innovation.

Rather than working in mainstream journalism, she has found new ways to thrive by leveraging AI to gather information for her YouTube channel, ‘Never Married African’, and remote assignments.

“AI has been a game-changer for me,” she said, reflecting on how technology has enabled her to remain relevant in the digital landscape.

Her journey into data-driven storytelling began with the support of Code for Africa.

With their guidance, she successfully wrote her first data-driven journalism piece, marking a significant milestone in her career.

“Code for Africa’s training opened doors for me,” she noted, stressing how their programmes have helped bridge the gap between traditional reporting and innovative storytelling.

Beyond financial constraints, access to accurate and up-to-date information remains a major challenge.

Yekini pointed out the difficulties of working with outdated or inconsistent data, which complicates reporting.

“The absence of updated and harmonised data is a major challenge for data journalism,” she explained.

“This makes it difficult to know which source to quote. Accessing accurate data is often hindered by restrictions and bureaucratic bottlenecks.

“Even using the Freedom of Information Act does not guarantee data availability.”

Reflecting similar concerns, Chioma Obinagwam, Editor-in-Chief of Confiance News, noted the struggle of obtaining expert opinions for stories.

“My biggest challenge in the industry is access to information. Getting pundits to speak on or react to topical issues is quite difficult.

“I remember working on an article outside my usual beat but couldn’t get experts to provide insights. Despite reaching out to them multiple times, they refused to speak,” she said.

For Omordia, a stable internet connection is another crucial factor that greatly impacts journalists’ ability to work effectively.

“Without reliable internet, it’s challenging to fully utilise these tools,” she remarked, stressing the need for better infrastructure to support media professionals.

She also called for more opportunities for training and mentorship, which would equip female journalists with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of modern media.

Also, Oladunjoye, believes media organisations must invest in digital tools that can enhance the work of their journalists, particularly women.

“There should also be policies guiding the use of these AI tools to ensure the privacy protection of users,” she noted.

“As NUJ clocks 70, the future is bright for women leveraging technology to drive change. Keying into technology puts you ahead of others,” Obinagwam said optimistically.

Omordia also expressed hope for the continued progress of Nigerian women in journalism.

“Women are excelling in this field, and I believe they will continue to do even better,” she said.

Ukuedojor added: “I envision women taking the lead in NUJ. Women are already making significant strides.

“We have a female journalist as the Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council. NUJ is also one of the organisations advocating for greater female representation in government, so I see women taking over”.

Overall, stakeholders agree that these female journalists, through their creativity, commitment to press freedom, and adaptability to modern challenges, are keeping Nigerian journalism dynamic and evolving.

Their contributions inspire others who aspire to reshape their roles in tech-driven media innovation. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

By Tosin Kolade, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Water, a critical resource for human survival, is facing a great distress engendered by climate change, human abuse, among others.

In Nigeria and across the world, water is fundamental for economic growth, agriculture and food security, economic development, industrial growth, public Health, national security and environmental wellbeing.

Over the years, concerns over the future of potable water have attracted insightful projections from world leaders.

Though water constitutes over 71 per cent of the earth surface, some of the predictions from former UN Secretary Generals are foreboding.

“The next war in the Middle East will be fought over water, not politics,” Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the sixth Secretary-General UN (1992 to 1996), said.

“Fierce competition for fresh water may well become a source of conflict and wars in the future,” Kofi Annan, the 7^th Secretary-General of the UN (1997 to 2006), said.

“The consequences for humanity are grave. Water scarcity threatens economic and social gains and is a potent fuel for wars and conflict,” Ban Ki Moon, the 8^th Secretary-General of the UN (2007 to 2016), said.

With vast water resources, including rivers, lakes and underground aquifers, Nigeria has an estimated total capacity of 359 billion cubic metres.

In spite of this natural abundance, millions of Nigerians still lack access to clean and safe water.

Inadequate infrastructure, weak regulations and rapid population growth have led to an unreliable and uneven water supply, forcing both urban and rural communities to struggle with daily shortages.

The crisis is worsening as public water systems fail to meet rising demand, leaving households and businesses increasingly reliant on alternative sources.

In Abuja, the nation’s capital, the sound of drilling machines has become a familiar part of daily life.

Residents, whether in wealthy neighbourhoods or informal settlements, are turning to boreholes as their primary water supply.

While this provides a temporary solution, environmental experts warn that the unchecked drilling of boreholes is depleting underground water reserves, threatening long-term water security.

According to a 2024 UNICEF report, approximately 70 million Nigerians lack access to safe drinking water.

In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where the Water Board is responsible for public water supply, many households have resorted to private boreholes due to an unreliable distribution network.

However, weak regulatory enforcement has led to indiscriminate drilling, often carried out without proper oversight.

This raises serious concerns about sustainability, water quality and the long-term availability of groundwater.

Albeit Nigeria’s abundant rivers and rainfall, poor water management has left many communities struggling to access clean water.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that each person requires at least 50 litres of water per day for drinking, cooking and sanitation.

Yet, in many Nigerian cities, even half of this amount is difficult to obtain.

In rural areas, women and children frequently walk long distances to fetch water, further revealing the severity of the crisis.

In Lagos for instance, a city surrounded by water yet plagued by shortages, the bottled water industry is worth billions of naira.

Constitutionally, the responsibility for providing water has been shared among federal, state and local governments, with private entities also playing a role.

The FCT Water Board insists that it has intensified efforts to enhance water supply in Abuja through increased funding, infrastructure projects, and improved revenue collection strategies.

According to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, the administration has allocated ₦9 billion to the water sector in the 2024 budget, with ₦2.2 billion designated for water treatment chemicals and ₦7.4 billion for operational expenses.

He said that the funds would help address longstanding water challenges in the capital.

The Director of the FCT Water Board, Mr Tauheed Amusan, said the ongoing Greater Abuja Water Project aimed to extend potable water to 26 districts, including Gwarinpa 1 and 2.

He explained that the project was a crucial step towards achieving universal access to clean water in Abuja.

To address inefficiencies in water billing and consumption, the board insists that it is exploring public-private partnerships to introduce prepaid water meters.

Policy watchers say recent reforms have already increased the board’s monthly revenue from ₦178 million to over ₦300 million.

In rural communities, efforts to improve water access are also underway with 192 water supply schemes being constructed.

As of March 19, 2025, the FCT Administration has not publicly released its specific budget details for the 2025 fiscal year.

However, the Federal Government has approved a national budget totalling ₦54.99 trillion (approximately 36.6 billion dollars) for 2025, which includes allocations for various sectors and regions, including the FCT.

It may be recalled that Nigeria established the National Water Policy (NWP) to ensure the proper management of its water resources.

The policy advocates for integrated water resource management to minimise waste and ensure universal access to clean water.

It also highlights the need for collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities.

One of the key objectives of the NWP is to regulate groundwater extraction, particularly the drilling of boreholes.

However, enforcement remains weak.

In estates such as NAF Valley Estate in Abuja, nearly every household has its own borehole, placing immense pressure on underground water reserves.

Dr Magnus Ezeh, a resident, expressed his frustration over the lack of piped water.

“What do you expect us to do? Water is essential for survival and we cannot live here without it; since there is no piped water, everyone has to find an alternative,’’ he said.

Available data indicates that in comparison, other countries have successfully tackled similar challenges.

In India and Kenya, unregulated borehole drilling led to severe water shortages.

In response, Kenya implemented strict borehole licensing laws and invested in large-scale water projects.

Ezeh said Nigeria could learn from such examples by enforcing stronger regulations and adopting more sustainable groundwater management strategies.

Beyond boreholes, many Nigerians rely on rivers, streams and rainwater for their daily water needs.

Similarly, in an estate in the Kubwa axis, Mrs Amina Yusuf highlighted the inconsistency of public water supply as a major reason for drilling her own borehole.

“We used to rely on the public water system, but it became too unreliable; sometimes, we would go weeks without a single drop. Drilling a borehole was the only way to ensure my family has constant access to water,’’ she said.

Regrettably, these sources are frequently contaminated by industrial waste, inadequate sanitation and oil spills, making them unsafe for consumption.

UNICEF reports that approximately 33 per cent of Nigeria’s water sources are polluted, contributing to the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

A major challenge in addressing the crisis is the absence of clear guidelines on borehole drilling.

The NWP stipulates that boreholes should only be installed where public water supply is unavailable and must be strictly regulated.

Yet, in practice, this policy is rarely enforced.

The Borehole Drillers Association of Nigeria (BODAN) has expressed concerns over this issue.

Its president, Francis Uzoma, acknowledges the need for water access but warns against the dangers of unregulated drilling:

“We understand that people need water, but drilling boreholes everywhere without proper oversight is not the answer.

“The government must implement a structured system where boreholes are permitted only in areas that genuinely require them, with strict monitoring to safeguard underground water levels.’’

Experts argue that instead of relying on unchecked borehole drilling, the government should prioritise investment in modern water infrastructure.

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has proposed a total budget of ₦211.79 billion for 2025, focusing on priority areas such as water supply, sanitation, and irrigation projects.

The Minister, Prof. Joseph Utsev, announced this when he presented the 2025 budget proposal to the Senate Committee recently.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to water and sanitation projects, agriculture, job creation, and disaster mitigation.

Utsev revealed that 24.19 per cent of the 2024 capital funds had been utilised for ongoing dam construction, irrigation and solar-powered water schemes.

According to the World Bank, only about 30 per cent of Nigeria’s urban population receives water from public utilities, leaving the majority reliant on private sources.

All in all, stakeholders say with Nigeria’s population projected to reach 400 million by 2050, the demand for water will only intensify.

They say subsequent water policies should place emphasis on effective water management, balanced use of water, access to clean water and long term water security. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

By Usman Aliyu, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Okomu National Park, a biodiversity gem nestled in the Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo, had long suffered the required attention.

In spite of its values to national development in tourism sector, concerned citizens note that illegal logging, poaching, and encroachment by farmers once threatened its rich ecosystem, home to the endangered African forest elephant and the white-throated monkey — one of the world’s rarest primates.

In a bid to secure the park, the Okomu National Park Service (NPS) and the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, collaborated to restore the park’s integrity.

The collaboration, which began in 2022, is not just about conservation; it is a holistic effort to secure the park, empower surrounding communities, and foster eco-tourism development.

From reinforcing security through ranger recruitment to initiating community-driven alternative livelihoods, the partnership is redefining conservation in the country.

In spite of its vast ecological significance, the 200-square kilometre protected area, designated as a national park in 1999, has struggled with illegal activities inimical to its values.

Reports from conservation groups have highlighted how timber merchants exploited the forest for its valuable hardwood, while poachers targeted endangered species for bushmeat and illicit trade.

A 2020 study by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) revealed that widespread deforestation within the park was driven by commercial interests, with criminal syndicates felling ancient trees and smuggling timber to international markets.

In addition, the unchecked hunting of wildlife, including elephants and primates, pushed several species to the brink of local extinction.

“The threats to Okomu were enormous; when I resumed duty in November 2022, illegal logging was a major challenge, and we had to find a sustainable solution”, Mr Lawrence Osaze, the Conservator of Park, observed.

Lawrence Osaze, Conservator of Park at the Okomu National Park, Edo

Recognising the urgent need for intervention, the National Park Service sought partnerships with conservation organisations that had a proven track record of success.

This led to the involvement of the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, which had demonstrated effective eco-tourism and conservation models in Gashaka Gumti National Park in Taraba and Adamawa.

The partnership between ANI Foundation and Okomu National Park began in 2022, and within two years, significant progress had been made in tackling the park’s longstanding problems, Osaze noted.

He said that one of the foundation’s first actions was to enhance the park’s security infrastructure.

“ANI Foundation hired and trained 38 additional rangers, equipping them with modern surveillance tools and deploying them for regular anti-poaching patrols. This move drastically reduced illegal logging and wildlife hunting.

“We joined forces together, and the story today is entirely different. The park is relatively peaceful, and logging activities are at the barest minimum.

“Before the partnership, rangers were often outnumbered and under-resourced, making it difficult to curb illegal activities. But ANI’s intervention has transformed the situation.

“The foundation has not only provided financial and logistical support but has also introduced intelligence-driven security measures, ensuring that poachers and loggers face swift consequences.

Entrance to Okomu National Park, Edo

“Beyond enforcement, the foundation recognised the importance of winning over local communities. Many of the park’s challenges stemmed from economic hardship, as nearby villagers relied on the forest for survival.

To address this, ANI introduced several empowerment initiatives, encouraging residents to adopt sustainable livelihoods.

“We have had a series of engagements with communities to gain their support. We are working to ensure they do not rely solely on forest resources for survival,” Osaze explained.

He noted further that the initiatives included savings and loan programmes for women and youth, enabling them to establish small businesses, expand their farms, or invest in alternative sources of income.

Similarly, the Iyase of Udo, Chief Patrick Igbinidu, a respected traditional ruler in the area, said that the impact of these interventions was evident.

“ANI Foundation has been a great partner since they arrived at Okomu National Park. They have not only improved security but have also empowered our people. Many of our youths have been employed as rangers, and women have been supported with interest-free loans,” he said.

According to him, these programmes have been instrumental in shifting locals’ perceptions of conservation.

He also said that communities had viewed the national park as a government-imposed restriction on their livelihoods, but now, they could see it as an opportunity for economic growth and stability.

Base of treehouse at Okomu National Park

By most accounts, Okomu National Park is one of Nigeria’s most important biodiversity hotspots, hosting species that are rarely found elsewhere.

ANI Foundation, meanwhile, prioritises protecting these species to promote eco-tourism as a sustainable revenue model for the park.

Peter Abanyam, ANI Foundation’s Project Manager for Okomu, emphasised the park’s ecological importance.

“Okomu is the primary home of the white-throated monkey. Apart from a small population in south-western part of the country, this park is where you find them in the world. The African forest elephant is also a flagship species here,” he noted.

By boosting conservation efforts, Abanyam insisted that the foundation would attract both domestic and international tourists, positioning Okomu as an eco-tourism destination.

According to the project manager, plans are underway to upgrade park facilities, improve visitor experiences, and market Okomu as a must-visit site for nature lovers.

Both the National Park Service and ANI Foundation acknowledge that long-term success will depend on maintaining vigilance against illegal activities while expanding alternative livelihood programmes.

“Our goal is to make Africa’s nature and wildlife a source of pride. We want to show that conservation can be sustainable and beneficial to local communities through private sector investment,” Abanyam said.

Amidst the sustainable efforts, the Iyase of Udo, also reaffirmed the community’s commitment to the partnership.

“We will continue to support ANI and the National Park Service. They have shown a genuine interest in developing our area, and we stand with them,” he said.

Observers note that for Osaze and his team, the vision is clear. It is to make Okomu National Park Nigeria’s premier eco-tourism hub, a model for conservation success across the country.

They note further that the transformation of Okomu National Park is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in conservation.

According to them, by combining security reinforcement, community engagement, and eco-tourism development, the collaboration between ANI Foundation and the National Park Service is setting a new standard for environmental protection.

What was once a forest under threat is now a beacon of hope for conservationists, researchers, and nature lovers alike, they note.

Stakeholders in tourism industry also agree that if sustained, Okomu model could be replicated in other national parks across the country, ensuring that the country’s rich biodiversity is preserved for future generations.

As efforts continue to safeguard Okomu’s natural heritage, one thing is clear, when conservation is done right, it benefits not just the environment but also the people who depend on it, stakeholders believe. (NANFeatures)

**If used, please, credit the writer as well as News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

By Funmilayo Adeyemi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Two years ago, Abubakar Mustapha’s life was filled with uncertainty.

Like many young people in Shuni, a community in Dange-Shuni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, he struggled to find a stable source of income.

However, his fortunes changed when he participated in an empowerment training programme run by UNICEF, with support from the Eleva Foundation.

This initiative marked the beginning of an unforgettable transformation in his life.

At first, Mustapha was unsure of what to expect.

The programme introduced him to the art of shoemaking, a craft he had never considered.

Yet, with patience and dedication, he mastered the skill, turning pieces of leather into finely crafted footwear.

What began as a simple learning opportunity soon became a pathway to financial independence.

But Mustapha’s journey was not just about personal success.

Understanding the power of knowledge, he has since trained four other individuals, passing on the skills that changed his life.

For him, shoemaking is more than just a trade, but a symbol of resilience.

With every pair of shoes he creates, he not only shapes leather but also forges a better future for himself and those he mentors.

“I was an Almajiri, moving from house to house. But that is no longer my reality. I now earn money from the skill I learned, and I have trained other boys”.

His craftsmanship has gained recognition, allowing him to earn ₦11,000 or more per week, enough to sustain his needs and improve his overall well-being.

Similarly, Faiza Bello grew up in a community where opportunities for girls were scarce. She often wondered what the future held for her.

Her life took a new turn when she discovered a child-friendly space centre, established by UNICEF in three Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, with support from the Eleva Foundation.

At the centre, Bello found more than just a place to learn.

She embraced literacy and vocational training programmes, equipping herself with essential skills for a brighter future.

Through mentorship and hands-on training, she gained practical knowledge that enabled her to earn a living.

“The centre has done a lot for adolescent girls in this community. Since UNICEF and the Eleva Foundation came, we have been able to escape challenges like early marriage and poverty.

“We can now stand on our own, run businesses, and even support others. Many girls have come to the centre to receive help,” she said.

Beyond vocational skills, Bello also received training on proper nutrition and healthy eating, ensuring she could take better care of herself and her loved ones.

Also, she was educated on comprehensive sex education and gender-based violence awareness, empowering her to make informed decisions and stand up for her rights.

Likewise, UNICEF’s intervention rescued a 15-year-old girl (name withheld) from an early marriage.

Albeit her young age, her family had arranged the marriage due to financial hardship.

However, swift action by UNICEF and relevant child protection agencies prevented the marriage and ensured she was placed in a safe environment.

As part of the support, she is now enrolled in a child-friendly space centre for vocational training, giving her the opportunity to acquire skills for a better future.

These experiences reflect the impact of UNICEF’s efforts to support Almajiri children and out-of-school adolescent girls in northwest Nigeria.

The Almajiri system, which traditionally involves young boys leaving home to receive Islamic education, often leaves them without access to formal schooling, proper care, or financial security.

Currently, around 10 million children in northern Nigeria are part of the Almajiri system, many of whom lack basic welfare (UNICEF).

A 2024 study found that for every six boys who enter the system, three die, two go missing, and only one survives.

The mortality rate stands at 308 deaths per 1,000 births, significantly higher than the national average of 132 per 1,000 (International Journal Corner).

In Kano city, nearly 1,400 Qur’anic schools accommodate 150,000 Almajiri boys, often in poor sanitary conditions, leading to high rates of open defecation (Sanitation Learning Hub).

Similarly, adolescent girls face numerous barriers to education due to socio-cultural and economic factors.

Recognising these challenges, UNICEF has been working to bridge the gap by equipping children with both academic and vocational skills.

Additionally, the organisation is improving data collection for better planning and resource allocation.

Speaking at a recent media dialogue in Sokoto State, UNICEF Child Protection Specialist Pius Uwamanua emphasised the role of education and skills training in addressing these issues.

He explained that child-friendly space centres serve as comprehensive facilities, offering mentorship, life skills training, and vocational programmes.

According to Uwamanua, these projects are currently being implemented in five North-West states: Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Katsina.

“Despite increased primary school enrolment in Sokoto State, 113,208 Almajiri children, mostly boys, are still living outside of family care, while 136,315 adolescent girls remain out of school”.

The centres provide multi-sectoral training in vocational, digital, and financial literacy skills, empowering Almajiri children and out-of-school adolescent girls to become self-reliant.

The vocational programmes include knitting, cosmetology, tailoring, and shoemaking.

The centres also offer mentorship for children at risk of early marriage and gender-based violence.

“The initiative has created a safe space where children can build trust and receive the necessary support, including legal services and psychosocial assistance,” Uwamanua said.

UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Sokoto, Mr Michael Juma, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working with the Sokoto State Government and other partners to expand education access and support marginalised children.

Juma noted that household data collection on Almajiri children and out-of-school adolescent girls has been instrumental in shaping education programmes.

He however acknowledged that identifying affected households remains a challenge.

“To inform education programme design, we are currently using a mapping technique to identify all out-of-school children. This approach has yielded notable successes, particularly in vocational skills training,” he explained.

He further called for sustained investment in education to reduce the number of out-of-school children and provide them with better opportunities.

Similarly, Mallam Yusuf Ibrahim, Director of Child Development and Protection at the Sokoto State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, urged the state government to commit to sustaining the skills empowerment centres.

He emphasised the need for revolving funding to ensure long-term sustainability.

“The digital village for Almajiri and out-of-school adolescent girls is a model that the state government can adopt.

“Our ministry is ready to provide leadership, technical expertise, and monitoring to ensure the centres remain effective”.

Addressing the shortage of female teachers, which affects both education access and healthcare delivery, Ibrahim also advocated for the recruitment of more female teachers.

The District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Muhammad Jabbi, urged the government to support initiatives that improve the lives of Almajiri children and out-of-school youths.

He expressed gratitude to UNICEF and the Eleva Foundation for their efforts, noting that their programmes have been instrumental in bridging the education gap for marginalised children.

While acknowledging the impact of these initiatives, he stressed the need for government intervention to ensure their continuity and sustainability.

Analysts say with early marriage and out-of-school adolescents still a prevalent issue, UNICEF’s intervention serves as a beacon of hope.

They opined that with strong government backing, these projects can have a lasting impact, reducing illiteracy and equipping vulnerable children with the skills needed for a better future. (NANFeatures)