From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has disbursed over N727 million in welfare support to orphans, widows, and vulnerable citizens across the state through the State Zakat and Waqf Endowment Agency (SOZEA).
The initiative, which reached 18,400 families across 87 districts in all 23 Local Government Areas, was disclosed by the Chairman of the agency, Muhammad Lawal Maidoki, during a briefing with journalists in Sokoto.
He explained that the programme aimed to alleviate hardship during Ramadan and the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. “In each district, 100 vulnerable orphans received Sallah clothes and a cash donation of N10,000 each,” Maidoki said. “Another 100 vulnerable persons, including widows, elderly people, the disabled, and needy Islamic teachers, were given 25kg bags of rice and N10,000 each.”
Maidoki described the effort as a demonstration of Ahmad Aliyu’s commitment to social welfare and community support. “These interventions bring relief to thousands of families and reinforce our dedication to ensuring the well-being of citizens across Sokoto State,” he added.
The agency also coordinated the distribution of Zakat and Waqf resources collected within each district, including cash, food grains, and livestock, to deserving poor and needy individuals.
Maidoki commended Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for donating 10,000 clothing materials and N10 million to support vulnerable people in all local government areas. He further praised the cooperation of the governor’s administration and local communities, saying it was key to the programme’s success.
“The support provided has not only eased hardship but also brought joy to many households, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in promoting social welfare,” Maidoki said.
Stakeholders noted that initiatives like this demonstrate the impact of targeted government interventions in improving the lives of vulnerable citizens and fostering inclusive development across the state.
