In a significant move to accelerate infrastructure development across Sokoto State, the State Executive Council has approved new capital projects worth over N2.9 billion covering key sectors including education, road construction, environmental protection, and religious infrastructure.
The approvals were granted during the Council’s 7th regular meeting held on Thursday, following presentations by various ministries.
Briefing journalists shortly after the meeting, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Sambo Bello Danchadi, announced that ₦487.9 million has been approved for the construction of a male students’ hostel at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
He noted that the contract will follow a 30 percent upfront payment structure upon bank guarantee and is not subject to variation.
Danchadi further revealed that the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Sokoto Network Centre, will undergo a ₦290.5 million renovation under similar financial conditions.
“In the religious sector,” he added, “the Council approved the renovation of the Menannata Juma’at Mosque at a cost of ₦122.3 million. The work will be handled by New Investment Resources and completed within six months.”
Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Isa Maishanu, also announced the approval of major roadworks aimed at easing urban mobility. The projects include the rehabilitation of Force Avenue, the construction of a drainage system from Tabarki Road to Kandinsani Junction, and the construction of a roundabout and culverts in the Mogadishu area.
All road contracts, valued collectively at over ₦1.75 billion, were awarded to ZBCC Nigeria Limited. The projects are expected to be delivered within three months, with down payments ranging from 30 to 50 percent and fixed-price terms.
Also, in a bid to improve climate resilience and institutional efficiency, the Ministry of Environment secured approvals for two major initiatives.
According to the ministry’s commissioner, ₦228.4 million has been earmarked for the construction of a new administrative office complex, while ₦200 million will be spent on establishing Evaluator and Weather Monitoring Stations to help mitigate the impact of climate change.
All contracts are to begin immediately following the fulfilment of financial guarantees. The state government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict quality control and adherence to agreed timelines.
The latest round of approvals underscores Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration’s dedication to infrastructure renewal, improved public service delivery, and sustainable development.
