The Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has recently revealed plans to convert the Mustapha Umar Elkanemi Arabic College in Maiduguri into a specialized institute for the teaching of Arabic and Islamic education. This institute aims to combat the ideology of Boko Haram, a militant group notorious for its violent opposition to education and its promotion of a radical and misguided interpretation of Islam.
The governor made this announcement during an inspection visit to the college in preparation for the conversion. Recognizing the threat posed by Boko Haram, Governor Zulum plans to establish a strategic partnership with Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt. Through this partnership, the new institute will produce knowledgeable students who will then return to the 27 local government areas of Borno State to promote teachings that counter the ideology of Boko Haram.
“We are here to assess the capacity of this school, including its human resources and infrastructure, in order to transform it into the Al-Azhar Institute,” stated Governor Zulum.
In addition to this initiative, Governor Zulum has also directed the newly established Borno State Arabic and Tsangaya Education Board to take over the administration of all Tsangaya and Islamic schools in the state. This move aims to centralize the management and improve the quality of education provided in these schools.
By converting the Mustapha Umar Elkanemi Arabic College into a specialized institute and partnering with Al-Azhar University, Governor Zulum demonstrates his commitment to countering the ideology of Boko Haram through education. This proactive approach will not only equip students with a strong foundation in Arabic and Islamic education but also empower them to promote teachings that reject the radicalization propagated by the militant group.
