By Muhammad Gazali Garba.
Sokoto State Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu has flagged off the disbursement of ₦4.2 billion mobilisation fees to contractors for the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market. The project, which was a fulfilment of campaign promise, aims to revitalize the state’s economy and provide relief to affected traders.
During a ceremony to mark the disbursement at the Government House Sokoto, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said, “This project is a testament to our commitment to supporting the business community and promoting economic growth in the state. We are confident that the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Market will have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the livelihoods of its residents.”
He recalled that the Central Market was burnt down in 2021 during the administration of former Governor Aminu Tambuwal. Despite the contract award and donations received, the reconstruction work failed to materialize.
However, he explained that the reconstruction was further delayed due to the need to reclaim the market from Taj Bank, to which it was leased out by the past government. “We had to take steps to reclaim our market, and now that we have done that, we can proceed with the reconstruction,” he said.
He added that the contract for the reconstruction of the market was awarded at the cost of ₦8.4bn to a number of contractors from the state’s business community following mutual consultations and advice, noting that the mobilisation fee represents 50% of the contract sum.
The Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barrister Nasir Aliyu Dantsoho, expressed delight in the commencement of the market’s reconstruction, noting that it would not only boost economic activities but also enhance the state’s revenue base. “This project is a significant milestone in our administration’s efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure and provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” he said.
Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, a former governor of the state, commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for fulfilling his campaign promise to reconstruct the Sokoto Central Market. He noted that the governor’s determination to restore the economic heartbeat of the state demonstrates leadership focused on people-oriented development and practical solutions to the challenges of traders and small business owners.
Senator Wamakko also recalled his own contributions to the development of the market, saying, “During my time as governor, I constructed 1,750 shops in the market and built the meat and vegetables market. We also secured interest-free loans for businessmen and women in the state, which helped to expand commercial activities and empower thousands of families.”
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sound economic policies, which have increased revenue allocation to the states, and for his unwavering support to Sokoto State. “These policies are creating opportunities for more developmental projects that directly touch the lives of ordinary citizens,” he said.
The contractors also expressed their commitment to delivering a high-quality reconstruction of the market. Malam Nafiu Dan Haja, a representative of the contractors, said, “We are committed to delivering a high-quality reconstruction of the market within the stipulated timeframe. We appreciate the government’s support and look forward to a fruitful partnership.”
Alh Aliyu Arzika, another contractor, commended the governor for his vision and leadership. “We are proud to be part of this project, and we assure the government and the people of Sokoto State that we will deliver a world-class market that will meet the needs of the traders and the entire community,” he said.
The ceremony was witnessed by the Minister of Labour, Dr. Muhammad Maigari, his counterpart the State Minister for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, former Deputy Governors, Chiso Abdullahi Dattijo and Barrister Muktari Shagari, among others.
