From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
Sokoto, In a bid to consolidate the provision of basic social services, the Sokoto South Local Government Area of Sokoto State has earmarked over N8 billion for its 2026 fiscal year.
The Chairman of the Local Government, Alhaji Ya’u Danda, disclosed this while speaking to newsmen in Sokoto on Thursday, describing the allocation as a significant step towards sustaining socio-economic development in the area.
According to him, Sokoto South is one of the two largest metropolitan local governments in the state, and the budget is designed to complement the efforts of the state government in delivering essential services to the people.
“This substantial allocation will enable us to sustain the ongoing positive trajectory of socio-economic development and further complement the efforts of the state government in providing basic needs to our citizens,” Danda said.
He commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto for his continuous support, noting that the governor has ensured the release of adequate funds to improve the well-being of residents.
“Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto is doing his best to provide us with the necessary funds to enhance the welfare of our people,” he added.
Danda further revealed that the 2026 budget had already been presented and defended before the State House of Assembly and subsequently approved in line with constitutional provisions.
“What remains now is the diligent, transparent, and accountable implementation of the budget to make it truly people-oriented, in line with the commendable 9-Point Smart Agenda of the governor,” he stated.
He explained that the budget preparation process involved extensive consultations, including ward-level town hall meetings aimed at capturing the needs and aspirations of the people.
“In addition, we engaged traditional rulers and other critical stakeholders to ensure that the budget reflects the genuine needs of the electorate,” he said.
The chairman assured that his administration would focus on completing ongoing projects while initiating new ones across the local government.
He noted that priority areas include empowerment programmes, support for traders and artisans, as well as agricultural development to enhance food security.
“We will intensify support for farmers to boost agricultural and livestock production, thereby contributing to food security in the state and beyond,” he said.
Danda also pledged to sustain rural and urban road construction projects, alongside improvements in water supply, security, education, and healthcare services.
“We will continue to invest in rural water supply, security, education, and health, among other developmental initiatives,” he added.
He also disclosed plans to expand religious infrastructure through the construction of additional Islamiya schools and mosques.
Commending the state government’s policy, Danda lauded Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto for ensuring financial autonomy for the 23 local government areas.
“He has consistently ensured the disbursement of adequate funds to enable us to execute meaningful development projects and empower our citizens,” he said.
He added that such efforts would help tackle poverty, reduce unemployment, and improve the overall standard of living of the people.
