New Horizons Nigeria has launched the Almajiri-to-Tech initiative, a skills-driven programme designed to transform Almajiri children into productive computer technicians and unlock significant economic value for the country.
The initiative, unveiled on Monday, will train 21 Almajiris within 90 days, equipping them with hands-on technical skills in computer maintenance, electronics repairs and renewable energy solutions.
The pilot scheme is fully funded by New Horizons at a cost of ₦50 million, covering training, feeding, clothing, logistics and work tools for all beneficiaries.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Nigeria, Mr. Tim Akano, described the programme as a deliberate first step towards solving what he called a “century-old Almajiri challenge” through skills, productivity and inclusion.
“The journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step,” Akano said, adding that the initiative represents a practical response to a problem that has been ignored for decades.
Akano traced the origin of the Almajiri system to the 11th century Borno Empire, explaining that it was originally designed to produce disciplined, knowledgeable and morally upright citizens before colonial disruption cut off funding and institutional support.
According to him, the collapse of that structure forced many Almajiris into street begging, gradually distorting the original purpose of knowledge-seeking.
He warned that Nigeria faces serious consequences if the growing Almajiri population, currently estimated at about 15 million, remains outside the productive economy.
“If we do nothing, the Almajiris population of about 15 million today will double in no time,” he said, stressing that failure to act could deepen insecurity and social instability.
Akano explained that the programme focuses on practical skills rather than theory, stressing that participants would be trained to repair mobile phones, laptops, desktop computers, televisions, fans and projectors, as well as build inverters and personal computers using electronic waste.
“We are not teaching theory here. What we want to teach you is how to repair telephones, laptops, televisions and build inverters,” he told the trainees.
He noted that trained computer technicians can earn between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000 daily, which he said is higher than the national minimum wage and provides a pathway to dignity and self-reliance.
Akano said widespread adoption of the model could significantly improve productivity and add value to the economy, noting that empowering millions with technical skills would translate into measurable economic growth.
“When you have 15 million extra manpower in the workforce, then the GDP of Nigeria will increase by as much as $20 billion,” he said.
The New Horizons boss emphasised that the initiative does not interfere with Qur’anic education, explaining that prayer times and religious learning remain fully accommodated within the training programme.
He added that educated imams and psychologists are involved in the programme to help re-orient the mindset of beneficiaries away from street begging and towards responsible citizenship and entrepreneurship.
Akano described the project as a long-term human capital investment aimed at converting street intelligence into economic value, noting that knowledge remains universal and not limited by religion, region or culture.
One of the trainees, Fatima Umar, thanked the organisers for the opportunity and pledged that the beneficiaries would justify the confidence reposed in them.
“We will make you proud of us. We have nothing to say but to thank you,” she said.
New Horizons Nigeria, which has operated in the country for over 21 years, said the Almajiri-to-Tech initiative aligns with its broader mission of reducing unemployment, expanding skills development and strengthening inclusive economic growth.
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