Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, has asked for the inclusion of Arabic education into Nigeria’s educational curriculum to offer equitable recognition and opportunity for graduates from Arabic-speaking countries.
Governor Mohammed made the request while receiving a delegation of Saudi Arabian businesses and the leadership of Nigerian students studying in Saudi colleges at the Government House in Bauchi.
The mission was led by Dr. Shuaibu Abubakar Idris, Director of the Centre for Sunnah Studies in Africa.
The governor voiced alarm about what he called the growing neglect of Northern Nigeria’s rich Arabic educational legacy, pointing out that the region has significant educational, religious, and cultural ties to the Arab world.
He emphasised the importance of preserving and strengthening those relationships, as well as ensuring that Arabic-language graduates receive due respect within Nigeria’s educational system.
Governor Mohammed also noted that Bauchi State formerly possessed a thriving Arabic College in Alkaleri, but that past administrations had abandoned the school.
He underlined the importance of reviving such institutions in order to promote high-quality Arabic education and expand educational opportunities for future generations.
Earlier, Dr Idris stated that the tour was intended to introduce Saudi Arabian businesses interested in investing in Bauchi State.
He stated that the investors were looking at potential agreements that would help the state’s economic growth and development.
Dr. Idris also addressed the governor on the Center for Sunnah Studies in Africa’s operations, including its work with Bauchi State students studying in Saudi Arabia.
Representatives of Nigerian students in Saudi universities thanked Governor Mohammed for his assistance and encouragement.
After completing their education, they promised to use the knowledge and expertise they gained overseas to help Bauchi and Nigeria grow.