By Abdulsalami Abdulfatai Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has commenced the disbursement of ₦4.2 billion as mobilisation fees to contractors handling the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market.
The project, which the governor described as a fulfilment of a major campaign promise, is expected to reinvigorate commercial activities, support affected traders and boost the state’s economy.
Speaking during a ceremony at the Government House in Sokoto, Governor Aliyu said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to “supporting the business community and promoting economic growth in the state.”
“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 said.
The Sokoto Central Market was destroyed by fire in 2021 during the administration of former Governor Aminu Tambuwal. Despite contract awards and donations received at the time, reconstruction efforts stalled.
Governor Aliyu explained that the market was leased to Taj Bank by the previous administration, a situation that delayed the rebuilding process until the present government reclaimed full control.
“We had to take steps to reclaim our market, and now that we have done that, we can proceed with the reconstruction,” he stated.
He noted that the contract, valued at ₦8.4 billion, was awarded to indigenous contractors after consultations with stakeholders. The mobilisation fee represents 50 percent of the total contract sum.
Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Barrister Nasir Aliyu Dantsoho, described the development as a major step towards revitalizing commercial activities and improving the state’s revenue base.
“This project is a significant milestone in our administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure and provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” he said.
Former Governor and Senator representing Sokoto North, Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, applauded Governor Aliyu for keeping his promise and prioritizing investment in the state’s commercial hub.
He recalled his own interventions in the market, noting that his administration constructed 1,750 shops, built the meat and vegetables section, and provided interest-free loans to traders.
Wamakko also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as pro-growth economic policies that enhanced revenue flows to states and created opportunities for development.
Contractors handling the project pledged timely and quality delivery. A representative, Malam Nafiu Dan Haja, assured that the reconstruction would meet expected standards, while Alhaji Aliyu Arzika commended the state government’s vision.
“We are proud to be part of this project, and we assure the government and people of Sokoto that we will deliver a world-class market that will meet the needs of traders and the wider community,” Arzika said.
The launch ceremony drew stakeholders including the Minister of Labour, Dr. Muhammad Maigari, Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, and former Deputy Governors Chiso Abdullahi Dattijo and Barrister Muktari Shagari.
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