From Muhammad Gazali Garba
The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr Ahmed Aliyu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting Islam and strengthening religious institutions across the state, describing it as a key component of his nine-point development agenda.
He made this known during the commissioning of the renovated Izala Mosque in Kirare Village, Goronyo Local Government Area. The project was executed by the state government as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade places of worship and promote religious values across communities.
The Governor also traced the historical background of the mosque, explaining that the original land on which it was built was donated by a respected community member, Shitu Dan Bello. He noted that since the completion of the mosque’s construction, it had not received any form of major renovation until the present intervention by his administration.
He emphasized that his administration places high priority on initiatives that promote unity, peace, and moral discipline, adding that investment in religious infrastructure remains essential to societal development. According to him, the government will continue to support the construction and renovation of mosques across both urban and rural areas.
The Governor further disclosed that his administration would, within the current year, focus on the establishment and strengthening of Islamiya schools across the state. He said existing Islamiya schools would also be upgraded to enhance the quality of Islamic education and moral upbringing among children and youth.
He also announced that the government would intensify efforts toward the proper maintenance of cemeteries across the state, as well as ensure that cemetery workers are integrated into the state payroll system to guarantee regular and sustainable remuneration.
The State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Jabir Sani Maihulla, commended the administration for its sustained investment in religious infrastructure. He described the renovation of the mosque as a clear demonstration of government’s commitment to strengthening faith-based values and promoting moral discipline in society. He urged worshippers to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance for continued use as a centre for worship, learning, and unity.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Goronyo Local Government Area, Engineer Zubairu Yari, said the mosque is the second mosque in Kirare town that has been renovated and upgraded under the present administration. He expressed appreciation to the state government for the project, describing it as a major boost to religious and community development in the area. He pledged the council’s continued support in maintaining the facility and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
The Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, also commended the initiative, describing it as a reflection of leadership that prioritises both physical infrastructure and spiritual development. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting developmental projects that directly impact the lives of citizens.
Similarly, the representative of the Sultan of Sokoto and Wazirin Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, praised the state government’s efforts in promoting Islamic values and strengthening religious institutions. He prayed for continued peace, unity, and prosperity in Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.
The Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Engineer Idris Muhammadu Gobir, who formally commissioned the mosque, described the project as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen religious and community development. He commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for prioritising initiatives that directly impact the spiritual well-being of citizens. He further assured that the facility would be properly maintained and utilised for its intended purpose, while urging residents to uphold peace, unity, and collective responsibility in safeguarding public assets.
The commissioning ceremony was witnessed by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko,Minister of Labour and employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of state works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo,speaker SOHA,Member representing kware and Wamakko,Hon Ahmed kalambaina,former deputy governor, Barrister Muktari Shagari,commissioners, special advisers, religious and community leaders among others.
The ceremony concluded with two raka’at Jumu’ah prayer led by the Chief Imam, marking the formal opening and commencement of worship activities in the mosque.
