Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has called on the Federal Government to integrate Arabic education into Nigeria’s national curriculum to ensure equal recognition and opportunities for graduates who obtain qualifications from Arabic-speaking countries.
The governor made the call when he received a delegation of Saudi Arabian businessmen and Nigerian students studying in Saudi universities at the Bauchi Government House.
The delegation was led by the Director of the Centre for Sunnah Studies in Africa, Dr Shuaibu Abubakar Idris.
Mohammed expressed concern over what he described as the gradual decline of Nigeria’s Arabic educational heritage, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where he said strong
historical, cultural and academic ties with the Arab world have existed for decades.
He stressed the importance of preserving and strengthening those relationships while ensuring that graduates of Arabic institutions receive proper recognition within the Nigerian education system.
The governor recalled that Bauchi State once had a functional Arabic College in Alkaleri but lamented that the institution was abandoned by previous administrations.
He called for the revival of such institutions to promote quality Arabic education and expand learning opportunities for young Nigerians.
Earlier, Dr Idris explained that the visit was organised to introduce Saudi Arabian investors interested in exploring business opportunities in Bauchi State.
According to him, the investors were seeking partnerships that would contribute to economic growth and development in the state.
He also highlighted the activities of the Centre for Sunnah Studies in Africa and its support for Bauchi students studying in Saudi Arabia.
Representatives of Nigerian students in Saudi universities commended Governor Mohammed for his encouragement and support, pledging to apply the knowledge and skills acquired abroad toward the development of Bauchi State and Nigeria after their studies.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.