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Sokoto Govt Approves ₦8.5 Billion for Reconstruction of Burnt Central Market

Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State
Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto state

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Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State
Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto state

Thursday December 11,2025

From MG Gazali

The Sokoto State Executive Council has approved the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the burnt sections of the Sokoto Central Market at a contract sum of ₦8,499,855,347.12.

This was announced by the State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barrister Nasir Aliyu Dantsoho, during a press briefing on the outcome of the council meeting held at the Council Chamber, Government House, Sokoto, on Thursday.

The council’s decision is expected to boost economic activities, enhance the livelihoods of traders and vendors, and improve the market’s overall infrastructure.

The Sokoto 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, prompting the current administration to investigate and address the situation.

According to the Commissioner, the contract was awarded to 38 different contractors from the state’s business community following mutual consultations and advice. The project will be fully funded by the state government, with a 50% down payment to each contractor.

The reconstruction project is expected to be completed within three months.

In addition, the council approved the construction of a new administrative block and rehabilitation of existing structures at the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, with a contract sum of ₦469,140,662.38 million and a completion period of six months.

This project is expected to enhance the agency’s operations and provide a better working environment for its staff.

Furthermore, council has also approved the transmittal of the 2026 proposed budget to the Sokoto State House of Assembly for consideration and approval, marking a significant step in the budgetary process.

The state lawmakers will scrutinize and pass the budget, which will guide the state’s financial planning and development agenda for the upcoming year.

The ₦8.5 billion earmarked for the reconstruction of the Sokoto Central Market will facilitate the creation of modern facilities, boost economic activities, and provide jobs for the residents of Sokoto State.

Sokoto Governor Lauds Council Members’ Teamwork, Calls for Increased Efforts

Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State
Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto state

Thursday December 11,2025Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State

From MG Gazali

Governor Ahmed Aliyu has commended council members for their cooperation in implementing government policies and programs, urging them to intensify their efforts to secure a brighter future for Sokoto State.

Following the opening of the 16th Regular Meeting of the State Executive Council, held today, Thursday, at the Council Chamber, Government House, Sokoto, the Governor highlighted the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving the government’s objectives. He noted that the progress recorded so far in various sectors was a result of the collective efforts of council members.

The Governor emphasized the need for more work and dedication to achieve the administration’s goals. He encouraged council members to remain committed to their responsibilities, stressing that the success of the administration depends on their ability to work together towards a common goal.

Governor Aliyu assured that the government would continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enable council members to discharge their duties effectively. With renewed vigor and dedication, council members are expected to intensify their efforts to drive development and progress in Sokoto State.

Sokoto PWA Extends Deadline For Hajj Fare Payment

Thursday December 11,2025

From Mode Lawal

The Sokoto State pilgrims Welfare Agency has graciously extended the deadline for intending pilgrims who have made initial deposits to complete their Hajj fare payments. The new deadline is Wednesday, 10th December.

 

The Chairman of the Agency, Alhaji Aliyu Musa, announced this today during a meeting with Assistant Hajj Registration Officers from the 23 Local Government Areas held in his office.

A statement signed by the Head of communication of the agency,Faruk Umar, urged intending pilgrims who wish to make full payment for the 2026 Hajj to take advantage of this new window of opportunity.

He explained that, unlike in previous years, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has introduced new guidelines for the airlift of pilgrims, in line with updated Saudi Arabian Hajj regulations.

According to him, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has unveiled a new boarding and group travel system for 2026 pilgrims, in which each ticket will be digitally linked to the Nusuk card. These cards will be pre-positioned in designated buses responsible for conveying pilgrims to their hotels in Makkah and Madinah.

Pilgrims will be required to remain in the same groups under which their visas were processed. Each group—consisting of 45 pilgrims—will travel, lodge, and return together, with no regrouping allowed after visa processing.

In addition, all pre-arrival data must be uploaded to the Nusuk Masar platform at least 72 hours before departure. Any pilgrim who fails to board after being ticketed will be marked as a no-show and may be liable for the cost of the unused seat.

The Ministry has also introduced a mandatory boarding card to be issued prior to take-off, containing all accommodation, travel, and group information.

Ghana Deports 3 Israelis In Retaliation After ‘Ill-treatment, Unjustified Deportation’ Of Ghanaians

Thursday December 11, 2025

Ghana deported three Israelis on Wednesday in a reciprocal move after accusing authorities in Tel Aviv of subjecting Ghanaian travelers to “ill-treatment” at Ben Gurion Airport and carrying out the “unjustified deportation” of three of its nationals, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

The Ghanaian government “has been compelled to retaliate” after its citizens’ treatment by Israel, it said.

“The Government of Ghana will continue to safeguard the dignity of its nationals and also that of other nationals,” said the ministry.

The statement said Ghana summoned the acting head of Israel’s Embassy in Accra as the ambassador was out of the country, adding that both governments agreed to seek an “amicable” resolution to the dispute.

It said Ghana expects its nationals to be treated with dignity and respect, just as other governments expect Ghana to treat their nationals.

Earlier on Wednesday, Accra condemned the “inhumane” treatment of its citizens at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport after several travelers were detained or deported, and said it is weighing reciprocal measures.

Ghanaian travelers were “deliberately targeted and subjected to inhumane and traumatic treatment” since Sunday, a Foreign Ministry statement said, noting that seven citizens, including four members of a parliamentary delegation, were detained without “justifiable” cause and released only after hours of diplomatic intervention, while three others were deported.

The parliamentary delegation was attending an international cybersecurity conference in Tel Aviv, while the three deported travelers returned to Ghana on the next available flight, according to the ministry.

“This condemnable conduct by Israeli authorities is extremely provocative, unacceptable,” said the statement.

It said the Foreign Ministry would summon officials from the Israeli Embassy in Accra early Wednesday to register its displeasure “in the strongest possible terms.”

The ministry said the Israeli government’s claim that Ghana’s embassy failed to cooperate in the deportation of its citizens was “totally untenable,” adding that the mission in Tel Aviv had been responsive and compliant with international law.

Ghana and Israel established diplomatic relations after the former’s independence in 1957. Following the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, Ghana, along with other African countries, severed ties with Tel Aviv. Relations, however, were restored in 1994 and have since included regular travel and cooperation.​​​​​​​

 

 

 

 

 

 

SOKOTO LAUNCHES MODERN STORAGE FACILITY TO CURB POST-HARVEST LOSSES AND BOOST AGRICULTURAL PROSPERITY

    By Sani Umar

    Agriculture is the mainstay of Sokoto State’s economy. Majority of the citizens engage in this vocation as a means of livelihood, thus feeding their families and earning income from what they produce.

    Production of food and cash crops such as onions, garlic, tomatoes, mangoes and vegetables has been practiced in Sokoto during both the rainy and dry seasons since time immemorial. The trend has endured due to the immense benefits farmers continue to derive from tilling the land.

    Over the years, local initiatives were introduced to enhance production, improving yearly yields. From manual cultivation to the adoption of simple implements, the introduction of irrigation proved transformative, especially with the use of tube wells and pumping machines that made watering and crop management easier.

    As yields increased, particularly due to the dual nature of cultivation in both rainy and dry seasons, a major challenge emerged, that is of poor storage of harvested produce. Without proper preservation facilities, farmers suffered colossal post-harvest losses running into billions of naira. Crops such as onions, garlic, tomatoes, vegetables and other perishables were often wasted, reducing farmers’ income and weakening the agricultural value chain.

    To address this age long setback, the Sokoto State Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFi) launched a modern onion cold storage facility at Kware, designed to curb post-harvest losses and support farmers to maximize the rewards of their labour.

    The introduction of this facility marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to modernize agriculture. It represents a deliberate strategy to support farmers beyond cultivation by ensuring that what is produced is preserved, protected, and profitably marketed. Cold storage will allow farmers to hold produce for longer periods, avoid distress sales, stabilize market prices, and ultimately increase earnings.

    The facility is also expected to strengthen food security by reducing seasonal scarcity and ensuring consistent availability of onions and other perishables. For a state blessed with vast arable land and favourable climatic conditions, such infrastructure is essential to unlocking full agricultural potential.

    The initiative aligns with ongoing government interventions, outlined in its 9 point smart agenda, aimed at easing farmers’ burdens and enhancing productivity. These include free distribution of fertilizers and agro-chemicals in recent years, subsidized inputs for the 2025 farming season, procurement of improved seeds and chemicals for smallholder farmers, and major investments in tractors, irrigation rehabilitation, and dam restoration to support year-round farming.

    By establishing the cold storage centre, Sokoto State is demonstrating a strong commitment to reducing waste, improving value addition, and transforming agriculture into a more viable and sustainable economic sector. The partnership with MOFi further positions the state to attract additional investments, improve quality standards, and build stronger links to domestic and international markets.

    As Governor Ahmed Aliyu affirmed, “This initiative marks a new chapter for our farmers, ensuring that the fruits of their hard work are protected, valued, and allowed to translate into real prosperity for our people.”

    The new storage facility is widely regarded as a game changer, one that will empower farmers, reduce losses, and reshape agricultural practices for greater efficiency and higher returns. It is a practical response to decades of challenges, and a bold step toward a future where every harvest counts and agriculture continues to serve as a pillar of prosperity for the people of Sokoto State.

    Sokoto Govt Warns Against Aiding Bandits, Applauds Troops’ Successes

    Tuesday December 9,2025

    From Abubakar Imam, Sokoto

    The Sokoto State Government has hailed the Nigerian Armed Forces for their swift intervention that thwarted an attempted ambush on traders in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.

    In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd.), the government said troops engaged and neutralised several bandits who targeted traders travelling from Tarah village to the weekly market in Sabon Birni on Monday.

    He said the timely action of the troops prevented what could have been a deadly attack, adding that their professionalism and courage once again underscored their dedication to safeguarding residents across the state.

    “The swift response of our military personnel averted a tragic incident and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the lives and property of our people,” the statement read.

    The state government commended the continuous sacrifices made by security forces and urged them to sustain the pressure on criminal elements, not only within Sokoto but across the entire North-West region.

    Col. Usman also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide timely intelligence that could help security operatives disrupt criminal activities.

    He issued a stern warning to individuals acting as informants, collaborators or financiers for bandits, saying the government would not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law against anyone aiding criminal networks.

    “Our resolve is clear—we will dismantle every network of bandits and their enablers. Anyone found aiding or supporting criminal activity will face severe consequences,” he stated.

    The adviser further assured that the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu remains fully committed to supporting security agencies with the resources and cooperation required to restore lasting peace across the state.

    Army Foils Ambush, Rescues Traders in Sokoto

    Gen. C. Musa Defence Minister

     

     

    Gen. C. Musa
    Defence Minister
    Continue

    Sokoto Govt, MOFi Collaborate To Promote Onion Farming, Launch Modern Storage Facility

    Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State
    Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto state

    Monday, December 8, 2025

    From Gov Aliyu of Sokoto State MG Gazali

    Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has disclosed that his administration will deepen its collaboration with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFi) and other stakeholders to promote agricultural production, particularly onion farming. He made this statement at the foundation-laying ceremony of a modern onion cold storage facility in Sokoto, a project undertaken in collaboration with MOFi.

    “We are committed to unlocking the potential of our state in agriculture, enhancing food security, and creating economic opportunities for our people. This partnership will enable us to achieve these goals and make Sokoto a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” Governor Aliyu stated.

    The governor emphasized that agriculture is a key sector in Sokoto State’s economy, with a significant portion of the state’s population engaged in farming and related activities. “We have vast arable land and favorable climate conditions, making it an ideal place for agricultural production.

    Our administration is determined to harness this potential and create a thriving agricultural sector that benefits our people,” he added.

    Governor Aliyu highlighted the importance of the onion cold storage facility, noting that it will help reduce post-harvest losses and improve the livelihoods of farmers.

    “The establishment of this cold storage facility is a testament to the strong partnership between the Sokoto State Government and MOFi. We are grateful for this collaboration and believe it will have a significant impact on our agricultural sector,” he said.

    The governor expressed his optimism that the partnership will attract more investments and support to the state’s agricultural sector.

    “We are confident that this partnership will not only improve our agricultural productivity but also attract more investments and support to the sector. This will enable us to achieve our goals and make Sokoto State a major hub for agricultural production in Nigeria,” Governor Aliyu stated.

    Governor Aliyu also enumerated various agricultural interventions aimed at easing farmers’ burdens and boosting productivity.

    He recalled the free distribution of fertilizers and agro-chemicals in 2023 and 2024 and announced the purchase of 38,000 bags of fertilizer worth N1.87 billion for subsidized sale in 2025.

    The state also procured improved seeds, herbicides, and insecticides worth more than N96 million to support smallholder farmers.

    Furthermore, the governor said the government has awarded a N22.1 billion contract for the procurement of 250 Massey Ferguson tractors, with half of the payment already made. Rehabilitation work on the Lugu Dam has commenced, and the Kware irrigation facility is slated for renovation, which will ensure year-round farming in the state.

    The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a strong and fruitful partnership with MOFi, assuring that the people of Sokoto will feel the direct impact of the initiative.

    He also expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Renewed Hope agenda, which he said is helping to steer Nigeria toward economic stability and growth.

    Dr. Femi Ogunseinde, Executive Director of Investment at the Ministry of Finance, in his remarks,emphasized that the partnership will focus on enhancing Sokoto State’s competitiveness in the global market. “We believe that Sokoto State has immense potential in agriculture, and we are committed to supporting the state government in unlocking this potential. We will work together to improve the state’s onion productivity, quality standards, and export infrastructure to meet international requirements,” he stated.

    Dr. Ogunseinde noted that the onion cold storage facility will enable farmers to gain more from their hard work. “With this facility, farmers will be able to store their produce and sell at better prices, thereby increasing their income and improving their livelihoods. This is a key objective of our partnership with the Sokoto State Government – to ensure that farmers benefit maximally from their hard work,” he added.

    The Commissioner for Commerce in Sokoto State, Dahiru Abbas, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to MOFi for partnering with the state to develop the agricultural sector. “We are delighted to welcome you all to this foundation-laying ceremony of the onion cold storage facility. This project is a testament to the commitment of the Sokoto State Government and MOFi to improving the livelihoods of our farmers and enhancing food security in our state,” he said.

    Alhaji Aliyu Maitasamu Isah, National President of the Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria, commended the Sokoto State Government and MOFi for the initiative. “This cold storage facility will be a game-changer for our farmers. We have been struggling with post-harvest losses, and this facility will enable us to store our produce and sell at better prices. We are grateful for the government’s support and commitment to improving the livelihoods of farmers,” he said.

    2025:Sokoto Handball Contingent Clinches Second Place At National Premier League

    December 6, 2025

    From Umar Danladi Ado

    The Sokoto State Handball Teams have achieved an impressive feat, finishing as runners-up in the second phase of the Ardova National Handball Premier League, which concluded in Lagos on Friday.

    Both the male and female teams exhibited professional skills, which earned them the second position in the league.

    According to a statement issued by Aminu Sani, PRO, Ministry for Youth and Sports, the Rima Strikers, the male team, demonstrated strength, resilience, and consistency throughout the tournament.

    The team’s performance included wins against Benue Buffaloes (36-16), De Defenders (28-19), Niger United (27-22), Adamawa Warriors (10-0), Tojemarine Academy (32-16), Lagos Seasiders (36-26), COAS Shooters (39-25), and Osun United (30-23).

    The female team, Rima Queens, also put up a strong performance, winning matches against Imo Grasshoppers (27-25), Rivers Queens (34-31), Omo Ogiefo Academy (28-26), Ekiti Queens (34-29), and Plateau Peacocks (27-23).

    The league concluded in Lagos, with both the male and female teams of Sokoto State emerging as second-place winners in the second phase of the Ardova National Handball Premier League.

    The players expressed their gratitude to the Sokoto State Government, led by Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for their continuous support of sports and youth development in the state.

    They also appreciated the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Dr. Engr. Mustapha Muhammad Kofar Marke, and the Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Hadiza Galadima, for their efforts in advancing sports in Sokoto State.

    Jega Advocates Merit Based Leadership In Nigerian Universities

    December 6, 2025

    From our Senior Correspondent

    Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and renowned academic, Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, has called on the Federal Government to entrench merit, competence, and integrity as the guiding principles in the appointment of leadership across Nigerian universities.

    He warned that the increasing politicisation of such appointments poses a serious threat to academic standards, institutional autonomy, and the future of higher education in the country.

    Professor Jega made this call on Thursday while delivering the 3rd Abdullahi Mahadi Annual Memorial Lecture at Gombe state University, Gombe State. The lecture, titled “Challenges and Prospects of Improving University Governance in Nigeria,” examined the structural, administrative, and policy-related obstacles confronting university governance in Nigeria.

    The distinguished Professor of Political Science and a one time Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, described universities as specialised intellectual institutions that require visionary, experienced, and academically grounded leadership to fulfil their mandates of teaching, research, and community service.

    “A university is not a political platform. It is a centre for knowledge creation and human capital development. It cannot achieve its core objectives when leadership appointments are driven by political considerations rather than academic merit,” he stated.

    Professor Jega expressed deep concern over persistent political interference in the appointment of vice-chancellors, governing council members, and other principal officers. He observed that this trend has weakened governance structures, encouraged poor administrative decisions, undermined staff morale, and contributed significantly to the gradual decline in the quality of higher education in the country.

    He stressed the urgent need for transparent, competitive, and merit-driven selection processes, anchored on clear criteria, academic record, leadership experience, and professional credibility. According to him, insulating universities from undue political influence is essential for restoring confidence in the system and positioning Nigerian universities to compete favourably at the global level.

    Professor Jega further warned that failure to reform university governance would continue to erode the capacity of tertiary institutions to produce graduates who are innovative, globally competitive, and capable of driving sustainable national development.

    The memorial lecture was delivered in honour of the late Professor Abdullahi Mahadi, a pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Gombe State University, whose contributions to scholarship, leadership, and the growth of the institution were widely acknowledged during the event.

    Speaking earlier as Chairman of the Occasion, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, Professor Umaru Pate, commended Gombe State University for sustaining the Abdullahi Mahadi Annual Memorial Lecture, describing it as a worthy tribute to the late pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

    Professor Pate expressed appreciation to the GSU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aliyu Yauta, and the university management for sustaining the initiative, noting that maintaining such academic traditions in Nigerian universities is often challenging.

    He also described the Guest Lecturer, Professor Jega, as eminently qualified to speak on the theme, noting his deep experience in university governance and his long-standing professional relationship with the late Professor Abdullahi Mahadi.

    Reflecting on Mahadi’s life, Professor Pate said the late scholar left behind an enduring legacy of service, scholarship, and institutional development at Gombe State University and beyond.

    The lecture attracted a wide audience of academics, policymakers, students, and education stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau. Participants described the event as timely and impactful in shaping the future of university governance in Nigeria.

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