Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has called on Nigerians to sustain the spirit of compassion and generosity displayed during Ramadan, urging continuous support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) beyond the festive season.
In his Eid-el-Fitr message marking the end of the holy month, the governor stressed that charity must not be seasonal but institutionalized as a collective national responsibility, particularly in light of the growing humanitarian challenges across parts of the country.
Aliyu noted that the teachings of Islam emphasize care for the vulnerable, adding that consistent acts of kindness are essential to strengthening unity, reducing inequality, and promoting social stability.
He expressed concern over the rising number of displaced persons due to insecurity in northern Nigeria, including banditry and communal conflicts, and called for a coordinated response involving government, private individuals, and humanitarian organizations.
“Support for IDPs must go beyond seasonal gestures. It is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from all well meaning citizens,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing interventions, the governor disclosed that his administration is investing in improving living conditions for displaced populations, including the construction of 100 housing units in Illela Local Government Area, with plans to expand similar initiatives to other affected communities.
He added that the state government has continued to provide food, clothing, and essential relief materials to IDPs, alongside efforts to strengthen security operations aimed at addressing the root causes of displacement.
Aliyu commended individuals, groups, and organizations that extended support to vulnerable populations during Ramadan, describing their contributions as critical to alleviating hardship and fostering a culture of compassion.
Beyond emergency relief, the governor revealed that his administration has, over the past two years, implemented a broad social protection programme, delivering financial assistance and materials to widows, orphans, persons with disabilities, and other disadvantaged groups.
He also highlighted ongoing support for religious leaders including Imams and Islamic scholars to promote moral values, peaceful coexistence, and community harmony nationwide.
Reaffirming his administration’s development agenda, Aliyu pledged sustained investment in infrastructure and urban renewal under his 9-Point Smart Innovative Agenda, while urging citizens to remain supportive and provide constructive feedback.
He further called on Nigerians to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebration to pray for lasting peace, unity, and security across the country.
The governor extended his best wishes to the Muslim Ummah for a peaceful and joyous Eid, reiterating his commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient Sokoto State within a stable and united Nigeria.
