The Sokoto State government has approved the allocation of ₦1.1 billion for the procurement of motorized boats, life jackets and relief materials for 22 local government areas affected by flooding.
The decision was announced by Ibrahim Dade Adare, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, following a State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday.
Adare explained that the move was part of the government’s response to a committee’s report on flood impacts across the state. “If you can remember, a committee was set up to assess the issue of flooding in Sokoto. The report indicated that out of the 23 local government areas, only Dange-Shuni was not affected by the floods,” he stated.
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The procurement of the boats and life jackets is seen as a necessary measure to support the flood-affected areas and improve their ability to respond to future flood-related emergencies.
Additionally, the Sokoto government has approved ₦565.2 million for purchasing 12,376 bags of 25kg rice, which will be distributed to the poor and vulnerable residents in the state. This initiative is part of the government’s wider effort to provide relief and mitigate the effects of economic hardship on Sokoto’s most disadvantaged communities.
In another development, the council also approved ₦149.8 million for the completion of a terminal block at the Alu Garage, one of the most popular transportation hubs in the state. Completing the terminal is expected to enhance the infrastructure at the garage, improving transportation services for travellers and local businesses.
These initiatives underscore the Sokoto government’s ongoing commitment to addressing both immediate needs caused by natural disasters and the broader economic challenges its citizens face.