Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
On Wednesday, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State officially launched the Shagon Sauki Na Amadun Alu initiative.
The people-focused program aims to reduce citizens’ economic burden amid Nigeria’s current financial challenges.
The initiative provides essential commodities and food items at a subsidized rate of 20%, specifically targeting civil servants, retirees, and local government employees across the state.
At the event, Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi who Commissioned the new Sauki Shops, praised Governor Aliyu for what he described as a “timely and commendable” intervention that has the potential to significantly ease the hardships many citizens are facing.
Governor Aliyu expressed heartfelt appreciation to Governor Namadi for honoring the invitation, describing him as a colleague, brother, and friend who played an inspirational role in shaping the initiative.
He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the people, emphasizing that the program is designed to provide direct relief to vulnerable households.
Aliyu clarified that the Shagon Sauki Na Amadun Alu initiative is not intended to compete with private traders, but rather to complement their efforts, especially those patriotic traders who voluntarily reduced prices during festive periods.
The governor highlighted that the initiative was developed as a palliative response to the economic realities brought on by recent subsidy reforms, and is structured to guarantee access to affordable basic goods for the less privileged.
He used the oçcasion to commend the Committee on Sales of Food Items and Essential Commodities under the chairmanship of the former state deputy Governor, Chuso Abdullahi Dattijo, for their commitment and efficiency in implementing the program.
He urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity, and appealed to the broader public to support the sustainability of the initiative, emphasizing its community-driven foundation.
The Governor acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for introducing nationwide social intervention programs that are beginning to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal.
According to Governor Aliyu, such federal programs have already begun to positively impact Nigerians through increased job creation, empowerment, and the promotion of self-reliance.
He offered prayers for President Tinubu, seeking Allah’s continued guidance for him in leading the nation through these challenging times.
In closing, Governor Aliyu reaffirmed that the Sokoto State Government remains steadfast in its mission to uplift the lives of its people through meaningful, strategic, and sustainable initiatives that put the citizens first.
