Northern group defends Sokoto govt N1.2b boreholes

Despite controversy surrounding the project, the Northern Youth Initiatives for Peace and Good Governance has come out in support of the Sokoto State government’s decision to spend N1.2 billion on drilling 25 boreholes.

The Sokoto State government had said that the sum of N1.2 billion was spent on drilling solar-powered boreholes. The disclosure generated backlash, especially on social media.

Chairman of the group, Comrade Zakari Hashim, in a statement on Tuesday, said the borehole project is a necessity, given the long-standing challenges of water access in the state.

According to him, the state has struggled for years with the lack of potable water, adding that the present administration’s commitment to solving the issue deserves applause.

He said: “By partnering with the World Bank to secure counterpart funding, the government has taken decisive steps to address water scarcity and reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases, such as cholera.

“It is important to clarify that this procurement process is part of a global initiative by the World Bank, and many other states have keyed into similar partnerships. We strongly urge His Excellency not to be distracted by those who aim to mislead or criticise without merit. These detractors do not have the best interests of the state at heart.”

The organisation noted that following the feasibility tour across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sokoto State, it witnessed firsthand the positive impact of the Governor’s performance, saying that numerous laudable projects are underway, with clear benefits for the communities, spurring economic growth and boosting livelihoods.

“Furthermore, the administration’s efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in poverty eradication and quality education. Sokoto’s educational landscape is being transformed as the Governor tackles the issue of out-of-school children with practical and effective solutions.

“Civil servants, too, have not been left out. His Excellency has increased welfare packages for workers, ensuring that their hard work is rewarded. The recent declaration of bonus packages for civil servants during Eid celebrations is unprecedented and a rare gesture in most states across the federation.

“In less than two years, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto has changed the narrative in Sokoto State. The state is now on a path of economic recovery, increased agricultural productivity, and the development of affordable housing schemes in new layouts. These initiatives are positioning Sokoto as a model for other states in Nigeria,” it stated.