Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
Former deputy governor of Sokoto State Mukhtar Shehu Shagari has commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto for what he described as a remarkable and far-reaching transformation of the state.
In a statement made available to journalists by his Media Aide, Musa Ubandawaki, Shagari said the governor’s sustained interventions in education, agriculture, healthcare, religious affairs, social welfare, environmental sanitation and infrastructure development are already changing the fortunes of Sokoto.
Shagari said the administration has demonstrated clear determination to improve the living conditions of the people and create a stronger foundation for sustainable development. According to him, programmes and projects initiated by the government are designed to touch lives directly and lay groundwork for long-term progress across the 23 local government areas.
The former deputy governor noted the governor’s achievements are becoming increasingly visible across the state, particularly in education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, infrastructure, social intervention and environmental management.
He added that the impact is being felt in both urban and rural communities.
Shagari highlighted investment in the education sector, including the rehabilitation and upgrading of schools, provision of learning facilities, and other interventions aimed at improving access to quality education.
He described the move as “an investment in the future of Sokoto State,” saying it will equip the next generation with the tools to compete nationally.
On agriculture, Shagari commended the governor’s initiative of making fertilizer and pesticides free to farmers.
He stressed that strengthening agriculture remains critical to food security, poverty reduction and economic empowerment in a predominantly agrarian state like Sokoto.
He said the support to farmers through inputs and other interventions will stimulate production, strengthen rural livelihoods and improve the state’s contribution to Nigeria’s food security drive.
On healthcare, Shagari acknowledged government efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and expand access to essential medical services. He described a healthy population as the foundation upon which meaningful economic and social development must be built, and urged that the momentum be sustained to reach the grassroots.
The former deputy governor also praised the administration’s attention to religious affairs and social welfare.
He said programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens, orphans, disadvantaged families and other groups have demonstrated genuine concern for the welfare and dignity of the people, and reflect a government that puts citizens first.
Shagari said investment in roads, water supply, housing, markets, power and other critical projects is gradually reshaping the physical and economic landscape of Sokoto State.
He noted that sustained investment in this area will enhance economic activities, facilitate the movement of people and goods, attract investment and create opportunities for the younger generation.
He further applauded Governor Aliyu for giving serious attention to environmental hygiene and sanitation. He observed that the Sokoto metropolis has witnessed a visible improvement in cleanliness and general environmental appearance.
He said the tidier outlook reflects the administration’s commitment to creating a healthier and more attractive environment for residents, visitors and investors, and urged citizens to complement the effort through proper waste disposal and protection of public infrastructure.
Calling for collective support, Shagari urged the people of Sokoto State, regardless of political, ethnic or other differences, to rally behind the administration.
“The development of Sokoto State is a collective responsibility. Government can initiate projects and programmes, but their sustainability depends largely on the cooperation and support of the people.
“I therefore appeal to all citizens to support every genuine effort aimed at improving the lives of our people and advancing the state,” he said.
He also charged residents to support policies that promote peace, security, education, economic growth and improved living standards.
Shagari encouraged the people of Sokoto to protect public facilities, support government initiatives and remain united.
“Sokoto belongs to all of us. Its progress must therefore be a shared mission. Let us put aside unnecessary divisions and work together to build a state that future generations will be proud to inherit,” he said.
He expressed confidence that with continued commitment by government and cooperation from the people, Sokoto State will attain greater heights and become an even stronger centre of economic, educational, social and infrastructural progress in Nigeria.