Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, has pledged to reconstruct the burnt portion of Sokoto Central Market, which was destroyed by fire in 2021 during the tenure of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

Aliyu made the promise while receiving the report of a committee set up to investigate the contract awarded by the previous administration for the market’s rebuilding. He explained that the delay in reconstruction was to allow the committee to complete its work and provide clarity on the status of the contracts.

The governor appealed for patience from affected traders, assuring them that his administration would diligently ensure the market’s completion. He commended the committee for what he described as a thorough job and promised to carefully study the recommendations for effective implementation. Aliyu also said arrangements were underway to support businessmen in the state, hinting at possible interventions to boost commerce.

Presenting the findings, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sokoto State Investment Company, Alhaji Abubakar Salame Goronyo, revealed that 33 contractors were awarded the reconstruction project, with an initial release of about N4 billion.

He said the contract covered 6,600 shops, but while some contractors made progress, others failed to commence work.

Goronyo added that the committee engaged relevant stakeholders during its investigation and expressed optimism that the recommendations would be implemented by the government.

Despite contracts being awarded and donations received in the aftermath of the fire, reconstruction had stalled until the current administration initiated the probe. The rebuilding is expected to revitalise economic activities, improve the livelihoods of traders and vendors, and upgrade the market’s infrastructure.