From Umar Danladi Ado,Sokoto
The Sokoto State Executive Council has approved multiple contracts covering road rehabilitation, airport expansion, renovation of public facilities, and printing of official materials as part of ongoing development efforts across the state.
The approvals were announced after the council meeting held on Wednesday during which commissioners briefed journalists on decisions reached by the cabinet.
Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Engr. Nasiru Dantsoho, said the council considered several key projects, especially within the state capital and surrounding areas.
He said the council deliberated on a number of important issues, including the rehabilitation of newly developed roads within the state metropolis.
According to him, 36 roads were identified for rehabilitation at a total cost of N2.2 billion, with specific projects including the Mabera Axis Roads, Kantin Sani to Gidan Bulon Magaji, and Tafarki Road to Eastern Bypass.
Dantsoho also disclosed that the council approved additional works on the ongoing construction of the Sultan Abubakar International Airport protocol terminal.
He said the contract was already in effect, but additional works were found necessary following recommendations by consultants.
The extra works were approved at the cost of N884.6 million.
The commissioner further announced the approval for the construction of a livestock services centre at the airport at the cost of N398.6 million.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Engr. Mustapha Kofar Marke, said the council also approved the complete renovation of the National Youth Service Corps orientation camp in Wamakko.
He said the camp was built over a year ago and had never undergone renovation.
According to him, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, the council approved the renovation of all camp structures, including hostels, bathrooms, halls, offices, and other buildings.
The project was approved at the cost of N1.079 billion. Kofar Marke further stated that the council approved the annual printing of official calendars and diaries for government use.
He said the calendar printing contract was approved at N67.9 million, while the official diary contract was valued at N71.2 million.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Finance, Muhammad Shagari Jabi, said the council approved financial arrangements aimed at supporting infrastructure delivery and boosting budget performance.
He said the measures would help in completing ongoing projects and improving implementation of the state budget.
Jabi also announced the approval for the renovation of the Sokoto International Conference Centre at the cost of N733.2 million.
He said the government considered it necessary to renovate the facility due to damage caused by exposure to open space and because it is already being used for several national and international activities.
