Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s First 3 Years: Consolidating Foundations, Confronting Challenges, and the Road Ahead for Sokoto – Part 2 By Nasiru Yahaya Isa (Wamban Isa)

 By Nasiru Yahaya Isa (Wamban Isa)

As Governor Ahmed Aliyu marks three years in office, Sokoto State continues to witness significant transformations across critical sectors of governance. From infrastructure development and security enhancement to economic empowerment, agriculture, and social welfare, the administration has focused on implementing its 9-Point SMART Agenda aimed at improving the lives of citizens and laying a solid foundation for sustainable development.

One of the administration’s most visible achievements has been the expansion of infrastructure. Major road dualization projects within Sokoto metropolis, ongoing housing developments, urban renewal initiatives, improved public utilities, and strategic beautification projects have contributed to a more modern and functional state capital. The government's commitment to restoring essential services, including electricity and water supply, has also improved living conditions for residents.

In the area of social protection, Governor Aliyu’s administration has prioritized the welfare of civil servants and retirees through the prompt payment of salaries and pensions, while also addressing long-standing gratuity arrears. These interventions have provided relief to thousands of families and restored confidence within the public service.

Security remains a major concern across the North-West region, and Sokoto State has adopted a proactive response through the establishment of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps. With thousands of trained personnel deployed across the state, supported by patrol vehicles, motorcycles, and operational equipment, the initiative has strengthened intelligence gathering, community surveillance, and collaboration with conventional security agencies. Reports from several communities indicate gradual improvements in safety and the return of economic and farming activities.

Economic empowerment has also emerged as a central pillar of the administration’s development strategy. Through skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, youth empowerment schemes, women-focused initiatives, and MSME development programmes coordinated by SOSMEDA, thousands of beneficiaries have received training, grants, equipment, and startup support. The subsidized distribution of motorcycles and tricycles has further expanded employment opportunities and enhanced mobility across communities.

Agriculture, which remains the backbone of Sokoto’s economy, has received increased attention through investments in mechanization, irrigation facilities, modern farming equipment, and support services aimed at boosting productivity and strengthening food security. These interventions are designed to improve farmers’ incomes while contributing to broader economic growth.

Looking ahead, sustaining these achievements will require continued investment, effective monitoring, and stronger support systems that enable beneficiaries of empowerment programmes to build sustainable businesses and create additional jobs. The administration’s long-term success will ultimately be measured by the lasting impact of these policies on poverty reduction, employment generation, and overall economic prosperity.

Three years into his tenure, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has demonstrated a commitment to translating governance into tangible benefits for the people of Sokoto State. While challenges remain, the progress recorded so far reflects a government focused on laying foundations, delivering services, and creating opportunities for future growth.

Published by Insight Tribune News

Source: Nasiru Yahaya Isa (Wamban Isa), Retired Permanent Secretary, Sokoto State Civil Service.