An Abuja-based ICT training institute has unveiled a large-scale initiative aimed at removing one million Almajiris from the streets and equipping them with digital skills to promote social and economic inclusion.

The Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons, Tim Akano, announced the programme on Monday during the launch of a pilot training session for 21 Almajiris in Abuja.
The scheme, titled “From the streets to technicians in 90 days”, seeks to transform participants into computer technicians within three months.
Akano said the N50 million training package covers tuition, food, clothing, logistics and tools for the trainees.

Abuja is the first location for the project, with plans to expand to Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara and other states.
Akano emphasised the need for strategic investment in social development, arguing that reducing street-vulnerable populations would ease the economic burden currently spent on tackling insecurity.
He estimated that empowering Almajiris could add up to $20 billion to Nigeria’s GDP within 14 to 15 months.

“If we win this battle, the billions of naira or dollars we spend in fighting insecurity will no longer be necessary. With 15 million Almajiris today and a birth rate of 3.0 per year, the population could reach 30 million by 2030 if no action is taken, making cities like Abuja increasingly difficult to inhabit,” Akano said.
Engr. Abdullahi Bukar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, People Expertise and Excellence Foundation, commended New Horizons for addressing both social exclusion and national security concerns.
He highlighted that skills development could provide sustainable livelihoods, reduce vulnerability to crime and extremism, and urged collaboration between the private sector, civil society and government agencies.

Dr. Mairo Mandara, Founder of Girl Child Concern, described the initiative as a practical approach to empowering disadvantaged children.
She said equipping Almajiris with digital skills would enhance self-reliance and dignity, and stressed that failure to intervene could lead to long-term social and economic consequences.
Fatima Umar, speaking on behalf of the trainees, expressed gratitude to New Horizons and its partners, noting that the training offered hope for a better future.

She pledged that participants would apply the skills learned to become self-reliant and contribute positively to society.
The programme reflects growing efforts to link youth empowerment and digital literacy with broader national stability and inclusive development.