NEWS
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu Approves ₦1 Billion for 2026 Ramadan Feeding Programme, Expands Centres from 155 to 170 to Serve 34,000 Vulnerable Residents Daily
In a bold demonstration of compassion-driven governance, the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, has approved the release of ₦1 billion for the 2026 Ramadan Feeding Programme, significantly expanding its scope and outreach ahead of the holy month.
The governor also announced plans to increase the number of feeding centres across the state from 155 to 170, a strategic move designed to broaden access and ensure that more vulnerable residents benefit from the annual initiative.
With the expansion, the programme is expected to provide approximately 34,000 meals daily to vulnerable residents throughout Ramadan, marking a substantial increase compared to previous years and reinforcing the administration’s strong commitment to social welfare.
Governor Aliyu made the announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Sokoto on Saturday, where he reiterated his administration’s resolve to cushion the economic realities faced by struggling families and to uphold the values of compassion and solidarity that define the holy month.
“We are determined to ensure that no one goes hungry during Ramadan. This programme is not just about providing food; it is about showing compassion and strengthening the bonds within our communities,” the governor said.
He further assured residents that comprehensive quality control measures would be strictly enforced to guarantee that meals served at all feeding centres are hygienic, properly packaged, and of high standard.
“Our people deserve nothing but the best. We have put in place mechanisms to ensure proper monitoring and supervision of all feeding centres to maintain the highest standards,” Governor Aliyu stated.
According to the governor, the additional 15 feeding centres will be strategically situated in underserved and hard-to-reach communities to ensure equitable distribution and wider accessibility. The initiative is specifically targeted at vulnerable groups, including widows, orphans, the elderly, and displaced persons, whose needs are often heightened during the fasting period.
The programme has continued to attract commendation from religious leaders and civil society organisations, many of whom described the intervention as timely and impactful in the face of prevailing economic challenges.
Malam Ibrahim Danmusa, Chairman of the Sokoto Council of Ulama, lauded the governor’s proactive approach and dedication to the welfare of citizens.
“This is the kind of leadership we need, one that remembers the poor and vulnerable,” he said.
To ensure seamless execution, the state government has directed all local government chairmen across the 23 local government areas to collaborate closely with community leaders in identifying genuine beneficiaries and overseeing effective implementation of the programme.
Ramadan is expected to commence in late February or early March, subject to the sighting of the moon. The feeding programme will operate throughout the holy month, reaffirming the administration’s pledge to foster unity, compassion, and inclusive support for all residents of the state.