THE ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPACT OF ALMAJIRI SYSTEM AND CHILD ABUSE IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS OF BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT The study assessed the impact of Almajiri System and Child Abuse in Bauchi Metropolis of Bauchi State, Nigeria. The Almajiri system, originally intended to provide religious education to young boys in Northern Nigeria, has deteriorated significantly over time, leading to widespread concerns about child abuse and neglect. Three research questions were formulated for the study Assessing the living conditions and welfare of Almajiri children within Bauchi Metropolis, investigating the extent of child abuse and exploitation among Almajiri children in Bauchi Metropolis and examining the benefits of the Almajiri system in providing psycho-social support to the parents of Almajiri students in Bauchi Metropolis. The population of the study consists of 1,500 individuals which include Almajiri children, religious scholars, known as Mallams, community members and parents of the Almajiri children. Simple random sampling technique was used and Taro Yamani statistical formular was applied to arrive at a sample size of 316. The instrument for data collection was structured questionnaire and data were analyzed by mean and standard deviation using SPSS software. Findings revealed that Almajiri children are highly vulnerable to various forms of abuse and exploitation, including physical mistreatment, forced labor, and neglect. . Based on the findings, the study recommended that the government and relevant stakeholders should implement programs to improve the living conditions of Almajiri children by providing access to healthcare, clean water, nutrition, and adequate shelter. Authorities should also enforce child protection laws to prevent abuse and exploitation. Mechanisms for monitoring Almajiri schools should be established to ensure compliance with child welfare standards. Keywords: Almajiri, Assessment, Impact, Child - Abuse,