From Muhammad Gazali Garba_
The Sokoto State Executive Council has approved over ₦8 billion for infrastructure and development projects across the state, including ₦2.2 billion for patching newly developed potholes on 36 roads to improve road safety and mobility for motorists and commuters.
The State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barr. Nasiru Aliyu Dantsoho, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the council meeting held at the Council Chamber, Government House, Sokoto.
He explained that the rehabilitation would cover critical roads where potholes had recently appeared, aimed at preventing further deterioration and extending the lifespan of the roads.
The council also approved ₦884.68 million for additional works on the ongoing construction of the protocol terminal at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport. Dantsoho said the works are intended to enhance facilities and improve comfort for dignitaries and other users of the terminal.
State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Bala Kokani, said the council approved the purchase of three bulletproof Toyota Land Cruisers, two Toyota Prados, and one Toyota Coaster bus for the Office of the Governor and other official services at a cost of over ₦1.4 billion.
He added that the council approved ₦438 million for the procurement of six new buses for the Sokoto State Transport Authority, SSTA, and ₦340 million for two pay loaders for the Ministry of Environment.
Kokani noted that the six buses for SSTA would be funded from the authority’s internally generated revenue, and said the approvals were aimed at improving transportation services and strengthening operational capacity in the state.
State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Mustapha Kofar Marke, disclosed that ₦1.079 billion was approved for the total renovation of the state NYSC orientation camp.
He said the camp, built about 12 years ago, requires comprehensive rehabilitation to improve the welfare and accommodation of corps members deployed to the state and to provide a more conducive environment for orientation and other activities.
Kofar Marke also announced approvals for the demarcation of the Livestock Service Centre in Wamakko at ₦398 million, and for the production and printing of 2026 calendars and diaries at ₦67 million and ₦71 million respectively.
State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Muhammad Jabbi Shagari, said the council approved ₦733.27 million for the renovation of the International Conference Centre, Kasarawa, Sokoto.
He added that the council approved funding from the Federation Account for infrastructure financing under the state discount programme, as well as the first 2026 budget amendment, aimed at strengthening infrastructure development, improving fiscal management, and ensuring effective implementation of government projects.
The commissioners said the decisions reflect Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s commitment to sustained development and improved service delivery in Sokoto State.
