Sokoto Gov Announces Grants for Traders Upon Completion of Central Market Reconstruction

Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has disclosed plans to begin disbursement of financial grants to traders in the state, following the completion of reconstruction work on the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market.

The governor made the announcement on Thursday evening while hosting leaders of the Traders’ Association to an Iftar at the Presidential Lodge in Sokoto.

The Sokoto Central Market, regarded as the commercial nerve centre of the state, was partially destroyed by fire, disrupting business activities and displacing hundreds of traders. The incident raised concerns about the livelihoods of small and medium-scale business operators who depend on the market for daily income.

The situation was further complicated by controversy over the previous administration’s decision to sell the market to a commercial bank a move that drew widespread criticism from traders and residents.

Governor Aliyu later reversed the sale and ordered the reconstruction of the burnt section, awarding the contract to members of the traders’ association.

Speaking at the Iftar, the governor said arrangements for the grant disbursement had been finalised but would only take effect once traders return to properly rebuilt shops.

“We are only waiting for the completion of the reconstruction of the burnt section of the market so that we can commence the disbursement of the grants,” Aliyu said.

“It would not make sense to give someone a grant when he does not have a shop to operate from,” he added.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the site, assuring traders that his administration remains committed to restoring commercial vibrancy in the state.

“As a responsible government, we are committed to doing whatever it takes to boost commerce in the state,” he stated.

Aliyu also used the occasion to highlight ongoing urban renewal projects across the state capital.

“Our achievements are visible; they are everywhere. Take, for instance, how Sokoto city is being transformed into an attraction site,” he said.

“We have learnt that people from other places come at night to catch a glimpse of the city and even take photographs,” Aliyu added.

The governor further acknowledged the political support he received from the trading community during the 2023 general elections, pledging that his administration would continue to prioritise people-oriented policies.

On criticism of his government, he said constructive feedback would always be welcomed.

“Criticism will not deter us from pursuing transformative initiatives aimed at ensuring a more prosperous and economically buoyant Sokoto State,” he said.

In his remarks, business mogul Alhaji Bello Bulaky commended the governor for reclaiming the market and awarding the reconstruction contract to traders.

“Your Excellency, we commend you for reclaiming the Central Market, which was previously sold to a commercial bank. That singular act has helped save many businesses from collapse,” Bulaky said.

He added that entrusting traders with the reconstruction project demonstrated confidence in their capacity to deliver quality work.

Other speakers, including Alhaji Chika Sarkin Gishiri, Malam Nafiu Dan Haja, Bashir Nuhu, and Malam Mukhtar, praised the governor for what they described as people-oriented projects across the state and assured him of their continued support.