By Mohammed Umar
In a couple of days, political parties in the country will commence activities in earnest to select candidates for various elective positions in preparations to 2027 general elections. These include president, governors, senators, members of house of representatives and state assemblies. For the ruling party, APC, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has clearly indicated his intention to vye for a second term. Similarly, in states some governors are on their final term while the first timers are vying for second term. Among the first timers, is the Sokoto state governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu. He is vying for second term slot in response to calls by the people in consideration to his selfless service to the people and remarkable achievements he has so far recorded.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, to say it loud and clear, has during his first term, demonstrated a clear vision and dedication to the welfare of the people and progress of the state.
On the basis of this, the case for granting him a second term is not merely political but a logical step to consolidate gains, complete transformative projects, and ensure sustainable development for posterity.
Upon taking office in 2023, Governor Aliyu inherited significant security challenges, particularly in the eastern zone of the state. He realized that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, his administration therefore made security a top priority.
Through strategic collaboration with federal security agencies, community-led initiatives, and increased support for local vigilante groups, Sokoto has witnessed a notable improvement in peace and stability. A second term would allow him to build on this foundation, implementing more permanent solutions and fostering greater inter community harmony.
Governor Aliyu’s tenure has been marked by a deliberate focus on infrastructure as the backbone of economic growth. From the rehabilitation of urban roads in Sokoto metropolis to the construction of critical rural access roads, his administration has worked to connect communities and boost commerce. Notable projects include upgrades to healthcare facilities, renovations in the education sector, and improvements in public utilities. These are not mere projects but investments in the state’s future that require continuity to yield their full benefits.
Sokoto State’s economy is predominantly agrarian. Governor Aliyu recognized this and launched initiatives aimed at modernizing agriculture, providing farmers with improved seedlings and fertilizers both during dry season and rainy season farming.
His administration also prioritized youth and women empowerment through skills acquisition programs and micro-credit schemes, fostering entrepreneurships and reducing dependency thereby creating the spirit of self reliance.
The recent recruitment of 3,000 graduates and NCE holders attested to the governor’s determination to empower the teaming youth.
A second term would enable the scaling up of these programs, transforming subsistence farming into agribusiness and creating lasting job opportunities.
In an era where transparency and accountability are paramount, Governor Aliyu has run an administration notable for its fiscal discipline. By blocking revenue leakages, prioritizing capital projects over recurrent expenditure, and ensuring due process in government contracts, he has restored public confidence in governance. This prudent management aimed to attract development partners and set the stage for greater investment. Continuity in this approach is crucial for long-term economic planning and sustainability.
The governor’s commitment to human development is evident in his policies on education and health. From the renovation of dilapidated schools and the provision of learning materials to the upgrade of primary healthcare centers and the recruitment of medical personnel, his administration has placed people at the center of governance. Education and health are slow-burn sectors; a second term would allow for the deepening of these reforms, ensuring that every child in Sokoto has access to quality education and every citizen can access affordable healthcare.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s first term has been characterized by purposeful leadership, strategic development, and a sincere desire to uplift Sokoto State. While significant strides have been made, many initiatives are still in their implementation phase. Interrupting this momentum could stall progress and delay the realization of the state’s full potential.
A second term for Governor Aliyu is not about entitlement; it is about trust earned through performance. It is an opportunity to solidify the gains of the past four years, complete ongoing projects, and lay an even stronger foundation for a prosperous, secure, and united Sokoto State. The people of Sokoto have a chance to choose continuity over uncertainty, and progress over stagnation. Governor Ahmed Aliyu has earned that chance.
