Social protection remains a priority of the Sokoto State Government, as it is one of the most critical sectors for the state’s development.
The State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, disclosed this at a two-day validation workshop on the review of the Sokoto State Social Protection Policy.
The workshop was organised by the State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the European Union, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and UNICEF at Azbir Hotel, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
Dr. Zayyana said that despite the government’s commitment, the state is grappling with insecurity arising from banditry, cattle rustling and kidnapping, leading to displacement, food insecurity and other socio-economic challenges.
He expressed hope that the validation meeting would produce a revised policy draft that would stand the test of time and help achieve the desired goals.
According to him, the State Social Protection Policy was designed to harmonise various social protection interventions aimed at achieving the mission and commitment of Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s administration to reduce poverty, social risk and vulnerability.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Director of Economic Planning, Sani Abdullahi, appreciated the European Union and UNICEF for their support.
Speaking, the Special Adviser on Sokoto Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (SOCHEMA), Ahmad Rufa’i Abubakar, also acknowledged the support of the EU and UNICEF, emphasising the need for stakeholders to work together on social protection.
In his remarks, the Chief of UNICEF Sokoto Field Office, Mr. Michael Juma, who was represented by Social Policy Specialist, Malam Isah Ibrahim, noted significant improvements in social protection in Sokoto State, including increased budget allocations to health, education, and women and children empowerment programmes.
According to him, since the Social Protection Policy was approved, many social instruments and institutions have been established in the state.
Mr. Juma reiterated UNICEF’s readiness to support the Sokoto State Government in meeting children’s needs and urged participants to provide recommendations to improve the quality and content of the draft Social Protection Policy document.
He added that after the review, the document would be presented to the State Executive Council for further consideration and adoption to effectively address the needs of vulnerable households unable to access basic services.
In their separate remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Ibrahim Muhammad, and the Chairman, State Zakkat and Endowment Agency, Malam Lawal Maidoki, highlighted the importance of credible data from the state social register in addressing social protection challenges.
Other participants included Special Advisers on Social Investment and Disability Matters, as well as Permanent Secretaries and Directors from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
