October 25, 2024

The Sokoto State House of Assembly has approved the continuation of subsidized food supply and essential commodities for residents of the state. The assembly’s endorsement includes a commendation letter to Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his initiative aimed at easing the hardships faced by citizens.

The approval followed a motion of urgent public importance presented by Alhaji Abubakar Shehu (APC-Yabo) and seconded by Shehu Aliyu (APC-Wurno) during a plenary session on Thursday. Shehu emphasized the importance of the governor’s efforts in light of the current economic challenges affecting the nation, which have made it difficult for many citizens to meet their daily needs.

He noted that the government has been providing assorted rice at subsidized rates across all 244 wards in the state’s 23 Local Government Areas. The initiative aims to alleviate the economic burdens on residents and has been structured as a revolving fund scheme, ensuring its continuation for the foreseeable future.

During the first phase of the program, each ward received 600 bags of 50kg rice, sold at N38,700, significantly lower than the market price of N65,000 to N70,000. Other subsidized food items include 25kg bags at N19,500 (instead of N35,000) and 10kg bags at N7,740 (down from N14,000).

The Speaker, Alhaji Tukur Bala, conducted a voice vote on the motion, which was unanimously approved by the assembly members.

Additionally, the assembly adopted a motion to rehabilitate livestock water pools in Mayankan Rogo, Agge, and Na Gwamja communities in Goronyo LGA. Moved by Alhaji Nasiru Adamu (PDP-Goronyo) and seconded by Alhaji Abdullahi Zakari (APC-Rabah), the motion underscored the importance of these water pools for enhancing socio-economic activities in the affected areas, aligning with the administration’s goal of improving the living standards of its people.