Jigawa State Government Partners with ABEP to Reduce Out-of-School Youth Rate and Improve Education Access

The Jigawa State Government has introduced several initiatives to reduce the number of out-of-school youth in the state. This was announced by Deputy Governor Aminu Usman during the official launch of the Accelerating Basic Education and Livelihood Opportunities for Children and Youth in North West Nigeria Program (ABEP).

According to Usman, the program aligns with the administration’s objective of lowering the state's out-of-school youth rate and ensuring children receive their right to basic education.

UNICEF data reveals that 83.2% of young people in Jigawa are either roaming the streets or engaged in street begging, with only 16.8% attending school. Additionally, 44% of primary school-age children and 52% of secondary school-age children in Jigawa are not enrolled in school, highlighting a significant educational gap.

“This administration is making significant efforts through partnerships with ABEP, UNICEF, SCI, Plan, and other organizations to bridge this gap and provide access to education for children to reach their potential,” Usman said.

Tobi Ransomed, team lead for the ABEP Consortium in Jigawa State, explained that the program is active in twelve local government areas across three North West states, including Kano, Jigawa, and Sokoto. Ransomed stated that ABEP’s primary goal is to empower vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, including women, girls, and youth, by enhancing access to educational and livelihood opportunities.