Shagari urges support for Sokoto gov’s development agenda

A former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State Mukhtar Shehu Shagari.

Former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State and Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, has called on citizens of the state to support Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration in its efforts to accelerate development.

Shagari made the appeal in a statement issued by his media aide, Musa Ubandawaki, on Thursday from Cape Verde, where he is attending the ongoing African Bar Association Conference.

He said the pace of development recorded across various sectors of the state required collective support and cooperation from citizens, irrespective of political, religious or other affiliations.

According to him, the administration has recorded interventions in healthcare, education, agriculture, road infrastructure, water supply, mass transportation, youth and women empowerment, security and other areas.

Shagari said, “The development taking place across Sokoto State requires the support and cooperation of every citizen. The governor needs the support of all the people of the state to enable him to consolidate these achievements and move Sokoto to a greater height.”

The former deputy governor also urged citizens and community leaders to complement government efforts by supporting initiatives aimed at improving living conditions across the state.

On security, Shagari stressed that government alone could not guarantee lasting peace, urging residents to provide useful information to security agencies.

He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and youth organisations to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements and activities in their communities.

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“Security is the responsibility of everybody. It is an issue that concerns each and every individual, because without peace and security, development cannot be sustained,” he said.

Shagari further urged religious leaders to avoid statements capable of undermining peaceful coexistence among residents.

He said rebuilding Sokoto’s infrastructure and institutions would require patience, continuity and sustained investment, noting that the process of restoring the state’s socio-economic fortunes could not be achieved overnight.

He added that with collective commitment and responsible citizenship, Sokoto could reclaim its position as a leading centre of development in the North-West.

“Sokoto belongs to all of us. We must therefore join hands to support every genuine effort aimed at improving the state, strengthening security, developing infrastructure and creating opportunities for our people,” Shagari said.