The Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has flagged off the disbursement of ₦4.2 billion mobilisation fees to contractors for the reconstruction of the burnt section of Sokoto Central Market.
Governor Aliyu said the disbursement, in fulfilment of a campaign promise, aims to revitalise the state’s economy and provide relief to affected traders.
“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.
He added that the contract for the market’s reconstruction was awarded at the cost of ₦8.4 billion to a number of contractors from the state’s business community following mutual consultations and advice, noting that the mobilisation fee represents 50 per cent of the contract sum.
Speaking at the event, former Sokoto State Governor Senator Aliyu Wamakko commended Governor Aliyu for fulfilling his campaign promise to reconstruct the central market.
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He said the governor’s determination to restore the economic heartbeat of the state demonstrates leadership focused on people-oriented development and practical solutions to the challenges faced by traders and small business owners.
Senator Wamakko also recalled his own contributions to the market’s development, saying: “During my time as governor, I constructed 1,750 shops in the market and built the meat and vegetables market. We also secured interest-free loans for businessmen and women in the state, which helped to expand commercial activities and empower thousands of families.”
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sound economic policies, which have increased revenue allocation to the states, and for his unwavering support to Sokoto State.
“These policies are creating opportunities for more developmental projects that directly touch the lives of ordinary citizens,” he noted.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Nasir Dantsoho, expressed delight at the commencement of the market’s reconstruction, noting that it would not only boost economic activities but also enhance the state’s revenue base.
“This project is a significant milestone in our administration’s efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure and provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” he said.
The contractors also expressed their commitment to delivering a high-quality reconstruction of the market.