The Sokoto State Government is set to commence the disbursement of grants to traders as part of deliberate efforts to stimulate commercial activities and strengthen small businesses across the state.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu gave the assurance on Thursday evening while hosting the leadership of the Traders’ Association to an Iftar at the Presidential Lodge in Sokoto. Addressing members of the business community, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to provide financial support that will boost trading activities and restore confidence in the market system.
He disclosed that all necessary arrangements for the disbursement have already been concluded. However, he explained that the government is waiting for the completion of the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market before releasing the grants.
“We are only waiting for the completion of the reconstruction of the burnt section of the market so that we can commence the disbursement of the grants,” the Governor said.
“It would not make sense to give someone a grant when he does not have a shop to operate from,” he added, stressing that the intervention must be practical and impactful.
Governor Aliyu expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work at the reconstruction site, noting that the project is progressing steadily. He described the rebuilding of the market as a critical step toward reviving commercial activities in Sokoto and ensuring that affected traders can return to business in a better environment.
“As a responsible government, we are committed to doing whatever it takes to boost commerce in the state,” he stated.
The Governor also acknowledged the support he received from traders across the state during his electioneering campaign. According to him, the business community played a significant role in his electoral success, and his administration remains committed to rewarding that trust with policies that promote growth and economic stability.
On criticism of his administration, Governor Aliyu maintained that his government welcomes constructive feedback from well-meaning citizens. He emphasized that such criticism would not distract him from pursuing transformative initiatives aimed at building a more prosperous and economically vibrant Sokoto State.
“Our achievements are visible, they are everywhere. Take, for instance, how Sokoto city is being transformed into an attraction site,” he said.
“We have learnt that people from other places come at night to catch a glimpse of the city and even take photographs,” he added.
Earlier, business mogul Alhaji Bello Bulaky commended the Governor for awarding the contract for the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market. He said the move has restored hope to many traders who suffered losses.
He also praised the Governor for reclaiming the Central Market, which had previously been sold to a commercial bank, describing it as a bold decision that saved many businesses from collapse. Bulaky further applauded the decision to award the reconstruction work to the traders themselves, noting that it demonstrates confidence in their capacity to deliver quality results.
Other speakers, including Alhaji Chika Sarkin Gishiri, Malam Nafiu Dan Haja, Bashir Nuhu, and Malam Mukhtar, also commended the Governor for reclaiming the market and for executing people-oriented projects across the state. They assured him of their continued support as the government moves forward with its economic revitalization plans.
