Govt moves to end decade of blackout in Sokoto communities

In a decisive move to address the prolonged electricity challenges affecting Binji, Tangaza, Gudu and Silame Local Councils, which have been without electricity supply in the past 10 years, Sokoto State government has awarded a contract worth N5.5 billion for the rehabilitation of the 33KVA electricity line and the restoration of township electricity distribution networks in the two areas.
   
The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Achida, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of Wednesday’s state Executive Council meeting.
 
According to Achida, the project, upon completion, would go a long way in improving electricity supply in the four local councils, thereby stimulating socio-economic activities and improving the living conditions of the people.

“His Excellency is deeply concerned about the 10-year electricity blackout in Binji, Tangaza, Gudu and Silame Local Councils and has decided to intervene by awarding this contract to restore electricity supply to the affected communities,” he added.

The commissioner also disclosed that the state government has awarded a contract for the rehabilitation of Government Technical College, Binji, at N988 million.
   
Achida explained that the decision to rehabilitate the institution was informed by its deteriorating condition, which had adversely affected effective teaching and learning.
 
He noted that the school was previously known for providing students with vocational training but had gradually lost that capacity due to its deteriorating facilities, hence the need to restore its lost glory.

The commissioner described vocational training as critical to promoting job creation, reducing unemployment and fast-tracking economic development.