By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Islamic activities and social welfare programs across the state. Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu made this pledge during the commissioning of the remodeled Yabo Central Jumu’at Mosque.
According to him, the state government will continue to provide financial support to Islamic institutions, including the payment of monthly imprest to 90 Jumu’at mosques and monthly allowances to Imams, Deputy Imams, Mu’adhins, and Islamic preachers.
In addition, the governor disclosed that the state government has embarked on a massive project to renovate and remodel Jumu’at mosques across the state. Some of the completed and commissioned mosques include Sheik Musa Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque, Ruggar Waru Jumu’at Mosque, Gwadabawa Jumu’at Mosque, and Sheik Abubakar Mahmud Gumi Jumu’at Mosque. Others are at various stages of completion.
Furthermore, Governor Aliyu announced plans to expand the annual Ramadan feeding program this year. The initiative aims to provide quality food to the less privileged during the holy month of Ramadan. To achieve this, the government intends to improve the quality of food served and increase the number of feeding centers, particularly in areas with limited access to such services.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s efforts to promote moral values and public morality. He stated that his administration has re-established the state Hisbah, which has been instrumental in addressing moral and behavioral challenges, especially among the youth. The Hisbah has played a key role in reshaping societal values by providing guidance and support.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Senator Aliyu Wamakko commended Governor Aliyu for his commitment to Islamic development and social welfare.
“We are grateful for the governor’s efforts in promoting Islamic values and supporting the Muslim community,” he said. “We urge him to continue on this path and to expand his support to other areas of need.”
Senator Wamakko also encouraged well-to-do individuals to emulate the governor’s gesture, emphasizing the importance of supporting Islamic institutions and programs.
“It is our collective responsibility as Muslims to support the growth and development of our community,” he stressed.
The mosque was formally commissioned with a special Jumu’at prayer led by Liman Faruku Lema, the Imam. The prayer marked the official opening of the mosque for worship.
Speaking earlier, the Sokoto State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Maihulla, said the government is willing to collaborate with any organization or body seeking to contribute to the advancement of Islamic values and development.
He also used the occasion to highlight some of the achievements of the state government under his ministry.
The state government’s initiatives have been widely praised as a significant boost to Islamic development and social welfare in Sokoto State.
