The Sokoto State Executive Council has approved a series of contracts worth over N5.4 billion for road rehabilitation, airport expansion, renovation of public facilities, and printing of official government materials as part of efforts to accelerate infrastructure development across the state.
The approvals were announced on Wednesday after the State Executive Council meeting, where commissioners briefed journalists on decisions reached by the cabinet.
Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Engr. Nasiru Dantsoho disclosed that the council approved the rehabilitation of 36 newly developed roads within the Sokoto metropolis and adjoining areas at a cost of N2.2 billion.
According to him, the affected roads include the Mabera Axis Roads, Kantin Sani to Gidan Bulon Magaji Road, and Tafarki Road linking the Eastern Bypass.
Dantsoho also revealed that the council approved additional works on the ongoing Sultan Abubakar International Airport protocol terminal project following recommendations by consultants handling the construction.
He explained that the variation was necessary to improve the project’s scope and functionality, adding that the additional works were approved at the sum of N884.6 million.
The commissioner further announced the approval for the construction of a livestock services centre at the airport, valued at N398.6 million.
Also speaking is the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Engr. Mustapha Kofar Marke, said the council approved the comprehensive renovation of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Wamakko at the cost of N1.079 billion.
He noted that the camp, which was constructed over a decade ago, had never undergone a major renovation.
Kofar Marke said the approved renovation would cover hostels, bathrooms, halls, offices, and other facilities within the camp.
He added that the council also approved the annual printing of official government calendars and diaries.
According to him, the calendar printing contract was awarded at N67.9 million, while the official diary contract was approved at N71.2 million.
On his part, the Commissioner for Finance, Muhammad Shagari Jabi, said the council approved financial arrangements aimed at enhancing infrastructure delivery and improving budget implementation across the state.
Jabi also disclosed that the council approved the renovation of the Sokoto International Conference Centre at a cost of N733.2 million.
He said the facility required urgent rehabilitation due to deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions, noting that the centre currently hosts several national and international engagements.
