By Umar Abdullahi
The Sokoto State Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd.), has called for Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s re-election in 2027, arguing that a second term would enable the administration to consolidate its security interventions and sustain investments in infrastructure and human capital development.
Usman said the administration had invested in security equipment, operational infrastructure and personnel, alongside projects in housing, education, healthcare and other sectors aimed at improving residents’ living conditions.
He cited the procurement of more than 200 Hilux and Buffalo vehicles and 250 motorcycles in the first phase of the government’s security equipment acquisition.
He added that the government subsequently procured 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles, bulletproof helmets and vests, night-vision devices, thermal imaging equipment and other operational tools at a cost of about N27.6 billion.
According to the adviser, Governor Aliyu also approved N1.7 billion for the purchase of 1,000 Bajaj motorcycles.
Usman further said the government provided 40 Hilux vehicles and 700 motorcycles to the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps to strengthen security operations, particularly in rural communities.
Other interventions, he said, include the construction of military barracks in Illela and a Mobile Police barracks in Tangaza, the operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force 119 Composite Group Base in Sokoto, improved communication and surveillance capabilities for the Department of State Services, and housing support for security personnel.
He added that forest guards had also received government support.
Beyond security, Usman highlighted road construction and rehabilitation, housing projects, classroom construction and renovation, healthcare improvements, skills acquisition and employment initiatives as areas of the administration’s activities.
However, he acknowledged that security challenges persist in some parts of the state, attributing them partly to inadequate coordination among security agencies and other operational difficulties.
He called for improved intelligence sharing and stronger collaboration among security agencies, saying better coordination was necessary to address existing gaps and protect vulnerable communities.
The adviser urged residents to assess the administration’s record in security, infrastructure and human capital development ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He argued that another term for Aliyu would provide an opportunity to consolidate ongoing projects and sustain interventions across the state.
Usman also appealed to residents to support efforts to restore lasting peace and security through prayers and continued cooperation.
