SOKOTO: Gov. Aliyu’s Approach To Governance
By Haruna Muhammad
In recent reports by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Sokoto State in Nigeria’s Northwest region was listed among the states with the highest rates of food inflation, alongside Gombe State in the Northeast. At first glance, this unfavourable rating might prompt the assumption that Sokoto’s leadership, under Governor Ahmed Aliyu, has failed to address the rising cost of staple food and other essentials. However, this narrative ignores the realities on the ground and the proactive efforts being implemented by the governor to tackle the root causes of food inflation in Sokoto.
In this regard, it is pertinent to understand the Context of Food Inflation in Sokoto. Food inflation in Sokoto, as in many parts of Nigeria, is influenced by several factors, many of which are beyond the direct control of state governments. The ongoing insecurity caused by banditry, especially in the Northwest, has had a severe impact on farming, leading to reduced agricultural output and, consequently, higher food prices. Additionally, global economic challenges, disruptions in supply chains, and rising fuel costs contribute to the overall inflationary trends seen across the country, Sokoto state inclusive.
Therefore, rather than succumbing to the temptation of attributing all of Sokoto’s challenges to leadership failures, it is essential to acknowledge the steps that Governor Ahmed Aliyu has taken to alleviate the burden on his compatriots. His approach is characterised by both immediate relief measures and long-term strategic interventions aimed at reducing food inflation and improving food security.
One of the most notable actions taken by Governor Aliyu in response to the high cost of food products, which the NBS didn’t capture in its release, is the introduction of subsidised sales of essential food items. Recognising the urgent need to make staple foods accessible to the average Sokoto resident, the governor commenced the sale of rice at 50% of the market price. This intervention, which came at a time when the price of rice has skyrocketed across Nigeria, has provided significant relief to households in Sokoto struggling to afford basic foodstuffs.
Yet, the price cut on rice is only the beginning. Governor Aliyu’s administration is also working to reduce the cost of other grains, such as millet, maize, and sorghum, which are staples in Sokoto’s diet. By providing these grains at reduced prices, the governor aims to ensure that no citizen of Sokoto is left without access to affordable food, especially during these challenging economic times.
Already, more sustainable approaches to food security are already gaining firm footing. As we know, short-term measures are critical, but Governor Aliyu understands that they are not sufficient to solve the underlying problems. For that reason, his administration is simultaneously pursuing long-term strategies aimed at addressing the root causes of food inflation. And, no sector guarantees food security like agriculture.
It is public knowledge that one of the primary drivers of food inflation in Sokoto as in the rest of Nigeria is the disruption of farming activities due to banditry and other forms of insecurity. It becomes worst for the state because Agriculture is the backbone of Sokoto’s economy, and the state’s farmers are central to its food supply. Sadly, the relentless attacks by armed groups have made it difficult for many farmers to cultivate their lands or even access their farms. This has led to a reduction in the availability of locally produced food, driving prices up.
Governor Aliyu’s solution to this challenge is twofold: improving agricultural output and enhancing security. For the former, the governor has launched a comprehensive agricultural support programme to aid farmers. This includes distribution of fertilizers, seeds, and other farming inputs to farmers across the state. Providing farmers with the necessary resources to plant and grow their crops, ensures that agricultural productivity is boosted and farming activities optimised to deliver maximally. The goal is to achieve a bountiful harvest, which will increase the supply of food and ultimately bring down prices.
Fertilizer distribution is a particularly critical component of this effort, as it ensures that farmers can maximise their yields. Thus, by providing high-quality fertilizers at subsidised rates, the state government aims to reduce the cost burden on farmers, enabling them to cultivate larger areas of land and produce more food for both local consumption and sale.
However, the success of these agricultural initiatives depend largely on creating a secure environment where farmers can work without fear. This is where Governor Aliyu’s focus on improving security becomes crucial.
The Governor has demonstrated a strong commitment to tackling the insecurity that has plagued Sokoto and its neighbouring states. Recognising that security is a prerequisite for agricultural success, the governor has been working closely with the federal government and security agencies to restore peace and stability in the region.
One of his most significant contributions to the security efforts is the provision of logistical support to security forces operating in Sokoto. Recently, the governor donated a fleet of vehicles and other security hardware to aid in the fight against banditry. These resources have enhanced the mobility and effectiveness of security personnel, allowing them to respond more quickly to incidents and cover a wider area.
This is a key role in fostering collaboration between agents of Sokoto state and federal authorities. This has culminated into Sokoto becoming a hub for security operations in the region, with all of Nigeria’s security chiefs now operating from the Northwest zone. Today, several high-level security meetings and strategies are being coordinated from the state. Already, this collaboration has yielded some notable successes, including the recent killing of Halilu Sububu, a notorious bandit leader who was responsible for numerous attacks in Sokoto and beyond. The death of Sububu represents a major victory in the ongoing battle against banditry and sends a strong message to other criminal elements operating in the area that it would no longer be business as usual.
As with any large-scale intervention, the results of Governor Aliyu’s economic and security reforms will take time to fully materialise. The agricultural season is just beginning, and it will be several months before the full impact of the governor’s efforts can be measured in terms of impact on inflation numbers and on the lives of the Sokoto people. However, early indications suggest that the groundwork being laid today will bear fruit in the near future.
With Sokoto’s farmers already receiving the support they need to increase their productivity, and the security situation improving, allowing them to return to their fields, it is safe to conclude that things are on their way to normalcy. It is now strongly believed that once the harvest season is in full swing, the state should begin to see a significant reduction in food prices as local supply increases. The governor’s focus on long-term agricultural development, combined with his immediate relief measures, provides a clear path toward reducing food inflation and ensuring food security for Sokoto’s residents.
Indeed, there’s no surprise that the governor is in tune with the yearnings and aspirations of his people. This is because, one of the defining characteristics of Governor Ahmed’s leadership style is his deep connection to the people of Sokoto. Unlike some political figures who prioritise international travel and meetings abroad, Governor Aliyu has remained firmly grounded in Sokoto, listening to, and focusing on the immediate needs of his constituents. His decision to stay on the ground, overseeing the implementation of his policies and interacting directly with the people, has endeared him to the people.
It is just as well, because the people of Sokoto are keenly aware of the efforts their governor is making on their behalf. It must be said, that whereas the NBS report on food inflation highlights the challenges the state is facing, it does not capture the full picture of the governor’s proactive approach. Governor Aliyu’s policies are setting the stage for a more prosperous and secure Sokoto, and the people are optimistic that these efforts will soon pay off.
In conclusion, while Sokoto faces significant challenges, Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s compassionate and hands-on approach to governance provides hope for a brighter future. His combination of short-term relief measures, long-term agricultural reforms, and a strong commitment to security is laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and food security in the state.
Muhammad writes from Sokoto
