Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
Sokoto State Government has earmarked N1 billion for its 2026 Ramadan feeding programme, targeting 34,000 vulnerable residents daily across the state.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto disclosed this during the official flag-off ceremony held at the Sokoto History and Culture Bureau on Sunday, declaring that the initiative reflects his administration’s resolve to protect the poor amid prevailing economic challenges in the country.
According to the Governor, the program will provide daily iftar meals to 34,000 beneficiaries throughout the 30-day fasting period, amounting to over 1,020,000 meals in total.
At a time when many states are grappling with rising food costs and social pressures, Sokoto’s scale of intervention places it prominently in the national conversation on subnational governments’ responsibility toward social welfare and religious solidarity.
The Ramadan feeding initiative was first introduced by former governor Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, laying the foundation for what has become a sustained social support structure.
Governor Aliyu, who served as Commissioner for Social Welfare during the program’s early phase, noted that the scheme has steadily expanded over the years.
In 2025, the state operated 130 feeding centres across various local government areas, alongside 300 mini-centres within Sokoto metropolis.
This year, the number has increased to 170 main centres and 200 mini-centres, broadening reach and accessibility.
The government has also engaged ad-hoc personnel to ensure smooth coordination, accountability and effective distribution of meals across the designated centres.
Governor Aliyu urged members of the Ramadan Feeding Committee to uphold transparency and integrity, reminding them that the program is a sacred trust designed to serve the most vulnerable segments of society.
Beyond the feeding programme, the administration highlighted complementary investments in religious infrastructure, including the construction and renovation of mosques and Islamiyya schools, as well as improved allowances for Imams and their deputies.
The committee overseeing the initiative is chaired by the Galadiman Gari, Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru, who assured residents of equitable distribution and strict monitoring mechanisms.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, was represented at the event by the Sarkin Malamman Sokoto, reaffirming the traditional institution’s support for programmes that promote compassion and communal responsibility.
As Ramadan approaches, the N1 billion intervention signals not only relief for thousands of households in Sokoto, but also a broader message on the role of state governments in responding decisively to social and economic realities across Nigeria.
