Nigeria needs to teach history and general studies.

The text is called Ajami, a centuries-old practice of writing other languages using modified Arabic script.

This tweet also explains the neglect of Ajami & marginalisation of Nigeria's minority Arab tribes. https://twitter.com/ogbenibolaji/status/1323323076067659781

Ajami was central to scholarship and devt in the old Hausaland

In the early years of colonial rule, British officials in Northern Nigeria were fascinated by the system

According to 1931 census, 30,000 - 35,000 Islamic schools were enrolling 200,000-360,000 pupils (Hubbard,1975

Students of that system were responsible for innovation and development of the old Hausa land

When the colonials needed administrative staff (clerks, judges etc) in Northern Nigeria. The system provided the required skill and manpower.

After the conquest and fall in the 19 century, Colonial Gov.t introduced policies that led to the gradual destruction of the system

Learned people became illiterates, making them not only unemployed but unqualified to be employed, despite being able to read and write.

Millions of people across the country and neighbouring countries still understand Ajami.

Locked in Ajami, is knowledge about our history, culture and indigenous innovations.

We shouldn't also ignore the marginalisation of Nigeria's Arab population.

Many Nigerian-Arab believe they are subjects of deprivation and marginalisation by state institutions.

They also suffer public resentment from people who see them as foreigners.

They also bear the brunt of the security, humanitarian and environmental crisis in northern Nigeria.