The Rise of Private Schools in Nigeria and a Unique Case
Private schools in Nigeria have evolved into highly profitable ventures, drawing in entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the increasing demand for quality education. Parents, guardians, and stakeholders are increasingly investing in private institutions, often prioritizing financial gain over educational excellence. This trend has led to a surge in the number of private schools across the country, with many individuals seeking to tap into this growing market.
However, not all private schools are driven by profit. Some, like the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) in Jos, were founded with a different purpose: to provide accessible education to children from low-income families. Established in 1977 by Musa Ibrahim, known as Sagagi, CIS initially focused on Islamic knowledge but later expanded to include Western education, making it one of the few institutions that catered to both Muslim and Christian students.
A Philanthropist’s Vision
Sagagi’s journey began with a vision to bring secondary-level Islamic education to Jos rather than sending children to distant cities like Kano or Zaria. He recalled the challenges of starting the school, including financial constraints and difficulties in obtaining necessary documents for registration and affiliation with local authorities and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Despite these obstacles, Sagagi remained committed to his mission. He emphasized that the school fees he charged were minimal, which made it difficult for some students to afford. To manage this, he did not offer fixed salaries to teachers. Instead, he relied on former students who returned to contribute to the community. Payments were made based on available funds, and teachers were asked to understand the situation.
Sacrifices for Education
To keep the school running, Sagagi sold part of his inherited house, as there were no significant donations to support the institution. He explained that he would sell anything if needed to ensure the school continued to operate. He also ensured that no child was sent home due to unpaid fees, personally visiting homes to encourage students to return.
His efforts have had a lasting impact. Many of CIS’s alumni have gone on to become professors, doctors, judges, and other influential figures. The school has produced notable graduates such as the chief imam of Sultan Bello Mosque, Muhammad Sulaiman, and several lecturers at universities across northern Nigeria.
Recognition and Legacy
Sheik Harisu Salihu, an Islamic scholar and beneficiary of Sagagi’s generosity, described his contributions as rare. He noted that many influential people in the region owe their education to Sagagi. Another former teacher, Mr. Menshak Lar, praised Sagagi for his humility and dedication to his students, emphasizing that the school provided equal opportunities for Muslims and Christians.
Sheik Ghazali Isma’il Adam, the chief imam of Jos Central Mosque, highlighted Sagagi’s humanitarian spirit. He mentioned that the founder would even borrow money to pay teachers, ensuring that no student was left behind. Sagagi’s commitment extended beyond the classroom, as he actively worked to secure admissions for students at tertiary institutions across the country.
A Lasting Impact
Sagagi’s story is a testament to the power of education and the impact one individual can have on a community. His dedication to providing access to knowledge for the underprivileged has left a legacy that continues to shape lives today. As he once said, “Knowledge is the key to positive economic growth and good democratic governance.”
