Governance
Sokoto Inaugurates Committee to Boost Support for Vulnerable Citizens
The Sokoto State Government has inaugurated a newly constituted Social Protection Policy Committee as part of efforts to build a structured safety net for vulnerable residents, reduce economic inequality and ensure targeted welfare support reaches households in need.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Achida, during a ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Sokoto.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Achida stressed the importance of robust social safety nets to long-term development. He noted that social protection should not be viewed merely as a discretionary government effort, but as a fundamental human right and a key stabilizer of social cohesion.
He charged the committee to develop and implement policies capable of protecting marginalized populations from systemic poverty, sudden economic shocks and widening inequality. He identified inclusivity, sustainability, and efficiency as the three major pillars that would guide the committee’s operations.
“This task is complex and demands collective expertise, open dialogue, and unwavering commitment,” Dr. Achida stated. “Let us build a system where prosperity is shared and dignity is guaranteed for all.”
The inauguration builds on Sokoto State’s ongoing efforts, supported by key international partners including UNICEF, the European Union, and the International Labour Organization (ILO), to strengthen local social registers, improve cash transfer schemes, and expand healthcare and educational interventions.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Buhari Umar Musheshi, expressed confidence in the selected committee members and reaffirmed the Ministry’s full institutional support for the successful rollout of the policy.
Accepting the mandate, the newly appointed Chairman of the Committee and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Alhaji Ibrahim Haliru Dingyadi, described the responsibility as a solemn call to public service.
On behalf of the committee, he pledged total dedication and diligence toward delivering a responsive social protection policy framework for the state.
The inauguration was attended by senior ministry officials, including the Director of Economic Planning, Alhaji Sani Abdullahi, and the Director of Administration, Alhaji Abdullahi Gidado Kware, alongside other key administrative management staff.