Sokoto State Government Enhances Social Protection Policies

The Sokoto state government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social protection policies and programs aimed at improving the welfare of its citizens. This commitment was articulated by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Development, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Achida, during a one-day Policy Dialogue on Social Protection Financing with the 23 Local Government Chairmen at Sokoto Guest Inn.

Dr. Achida revealed that a Social Protection Policy Document has been developed to guide the implementation of social protection programs across the state, focusing on poverty reduction and vulnerability alleviation in line with the Nine-Point SMART Agenda of Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto. He emphasized the importance of local governments in socio-economic development and commended the chairmen for their commitment.

Alhaji Abba Shehu Tambuwal, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Sokoto, pledged support for social protection initiatives. Malam Isah Ibrahim, UNICEF Social Policy Specialist, noted that Sokoto is among four states receiving EU support for social protection, with potential for increased investment in 2027.