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In a time when political leadership often appears disconnected from grassroots realities, Sokoto state under Governor Ahmed Aliyu is quietly scripting a different story. Dr Aliyu’s approach is defined by compassion, accountability, religious harmony, and strategic partnerships. It’s no surprise that the results are becoming increasingly hard to ignore....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>
One of the most striking features of the governor’s stewardship has been the deliberate efforts to uphold Islamic values through tangible support. This past Ramadan, for instance, the Aliyu administration extended financial grants to mosques, imams, and their deputies—not as mere tokenism, but as a well-thought-out policy to strengthen religious institutions and encourage spiritual leadership in every community, to uphold Islamic values even beyond the fasting season. Where others offer lip service, Governor Aliyu chose to invest in the moral fabric of society and the results have been quite amazing. But, that’s not all!
Complementing this spiritual investment is the massive expansion of Ramadan feeding centres across all local government areas of Sokoto state. From 130 centres last year to 155 this year, the initiative didn’t just aim to feed the fasting poor, it was a compassionate response to social inequality, to bridge the gap between the haves and the haves-not. Vulnerable groups, orphans, and the physically challenged were not only catered for, they were also prioritised deliberately and passionately. What was witnessed in Sokoto was a bold example of what happens when people are placed at the heart of governance.
But beyond religious outreaches and welfare, Governor Aliyu has fostered a rare kind of synergy in statecraft. His cordial relationship with the state legislature speaks volumes about his inclusive leadership. Lawmakers, both ruling and opposition, have acknowledged his prudent use of resources—achieving development without resorting to borrowing. In Nigeria where state governors fall over themselves pursuing reckless debt accumulation, this model stands out as both wise and exemplary.
The Sultanate, the moral compass of Sokoto’s and Nigeria’s Islamic heritage, has also found a reliable partner in Governor Aliyu. The Sultan’s reciprocal Sallah homages reflect more than formality, it mirrors a deep collaboration in areas like tackling street begging, reforming the almajiri system through integration schools, and ensuring that the poor are not abandoned to the streets. The Sultan himself has publicly praised the governor’s style and urged others to emulate Sokoto’s example in treating all Nigerians as equal stakeholders in the national project.
What’s even more impressive is how the Aliyu administration has embraced civil society and charity organisations. Many of the Ramadan feeding centres were established in collaboration with these groups, signalling a government that understands the power of partnerships. This isn’t a government trying to do everything alone, but one that recognises and empowers others to contribute.
Even in the economic space, the story is shifting. From efforts to revive collapsed industries to the support given to the Sokoto Chamber of Commerce, Governor Aliyu is laying the foundation for a more economically vibrant state, one that will benefit the people of Sokoto for years to come. His support for small businesses and drive to attract investors, especially in agriculture and mining, align perfectly with Sokoto’s natural strengths and strategic advantages.
Yet, all of this has been achieved without taking a single kobo in loans. That alone deserves applause in a country where states are buried in debt with little to show for it. Development, it appears, is not just about how much is borrowed but how wisely what is available is deployed for the good of the people. Governor Aliyu is indeed demystifying governance, showing that it’s possible to excel within the reach of available resources.
In a Nigeria desperate for exemplary leadership at all levels, Sokoto under Governor Ahmed Aliyu is quietly becoming a model. His approach, rooted in humility, cooperation, and purpose is not flashy, yet it is deeply effective. He reminds us that when leaders truly care, when they listen, and when they serve, progress becomes inevitable.
The people of Sokoto are not just seeing change; they are feeling it. And that, ultimately, is the hallmark of leadership. The future holds, for both Governor Aliyu and the people of Sokoto, a great promise that will define generations yet unborn. And when the story of Sokoto state is written in the future, Governor Aliyu is sure to occupy relevant pages on leadership innovation, frugality, humility, religious promotion, pan-Nigerianness and a deep love for his state of birth…CONTINUE READING>>
