Between Faith and Survival: Community Voices Raise Concern Over Almajiri Children in Runji, Zuba RUNJI, ZUBA, ABUJA — Along the dusty streets of Runji community in Zuba, Abuja, young boys carrying plastic bowls move from house to house asking for food or money. For many residents, the sight of these children wandering the streets has become a common but troubling reality. The children are part of the traditional Almajiri system, where young boys are sent away from home to study the Qur’an under Islamic teachers, popularly known as Mallams. However, interviews conducted with residents in the community reveal mixed reactions about the system and its impact on the children and the society around them. “Many Parents Have Abandoned the Children," Mallam An Islamic teacher in the community, Salisu Isah, explained that the Almajiri system was originally intended to help children gain Islamic knowledge, especially those who lack access to formal education. According to him, ma...
T-Fresh Civic Voice is a civic storytelling and research journalism platform documenting Nigerian realities, education, governance, gender equality, and citizen participation. We highlight challenges, resilience, and everyday struggles shaping access to opportunity, from Almajiri children to off-campus students.