From Muhammad Gazali Garba.
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has officially flagged off the 2026 Ramadan Feeding Programme, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting the less privileged during the holy month of Ramadan.
The flag-off ceremony, held at the History Bureau in Sokoto, marked the commencement of the annual humanitarian initiative, which provides free meals to vulnerable residents across the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aliyu described the programme as a vital social intervention aimed at easing the burden on fasting Muslims while promoting compassion, unity, and shared responsibility.
Governor Aliyu noted that last year, the programme operated through over 155 centres and 300 individual centres .
He said that, due to public request, the government has increased the number of centres to 170 for 2026,noting that each centre has the capacity to accommodate 200 persons at a time.
According to the Governor, a total of ₦1 billion has been earmarked for the programme this year, which will involve the distribution of 34,000 food plates every day throughout the Ramadan period across all centres. He also assured that the food to be served is well-packaged, high-quality meals that can be served anywhere.
He further announced that the government has engaged ad-hoc staff to support the smooth and efficient running of the centres.
Gov. Aliyu explained that since assuming office, his administration has implemented various initiatives to promote and strengthen Islam in the state.
These include the rehabilitation and upgrading of mosques and schools, as well as the provision of monthly upkeep allowances to Jumuat mosques.
The Governor appealed to members of the public, religious organisations, and well-meaning individuals to support the less privileged during this blessed month of Ramadan. He stressed that collective generosity and community participation are vital to ensuring that no one goes without food during the fasting period.
He further emphasized that the Ramadan feeding programme, which was initiated 19 years ago during the administration of Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko when he served as Commissioner for Social Welfare, has continued to provide relief to thousands of residents, reflecting the state government’s sustained dedication to social welfare and poverty alleviation.
The Chairman of the Ramadan Committee, Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru, disclosed that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth running of the centres. He assured that committee members would work diligently to guarantee fairness and effective service delivery throughout the fasting period.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Professor Jabir Sani Maihulla, urged members of the committee, particularly the G5 Committee, to carry out their duties with the fear of Allah. He emphasized the importance of sincerity, discipline, and justice in managing the centres, noting that the programme must operate optimally in a manner acceptable to all beneficiaries and stakeholders.
The representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, Mal Yahaya Na Malam Boyi, commended the Governor for his commitment to social welfare and poverty alleviation. He assured the Governor of the Sultan’s support and prayers for the success of the programme.
The occasion was graced by notable dignitaries, including Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, former Deputy Governor Barrister Muktari Shagari, Speaker Sokoto State House of Assembly Hon Tukur Bala Bodinga, SSG Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa, Chief of Staff Government House Sokoto Alhaji Aminu Haliru Dikko, Islamic scholars, Islamic groups, traditional rulers, and other esteemed guests.
The occasion reached its climax with the presentation of food and other items allocated to various centres, symbolizing the official launch of the programme.
