The Sokoto State Government has taken a significant step to bolster its fight against banditry and other criminal activities by awarding a N1.59bn contract for the procurement of 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles. This decision was made during the 8th regular meeting of the Sokoto State Executive Council, presided over by Governor Ahmed Aliyu. The contract, valued at N1,592,250,000, aims to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies across the state.
The procurement of these 30 Hilux vans is part of the government's continued efforts to enhance the mobility and operational effectiveness of security agencies. According to the Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Abubakar Bawa, this move is in addition to the over 200 Hilux vans and 62 armoured vehicles previously procured and distributed to security agencies by the administration. These efforts are geared towards protecting residents from banditry and other criminal activities.
In a related development, the council approved a bill for the enactment of the Sokoto State Banditry Special Prohibition Law, 2026. This law aims to provide additional legal measures to penalise and check the activities of armed bandits in the state. The government believes that this legislation will complement the procurement of vehicles and other security measures to create a safer environment for the residents of Sokoto State.
The Sokoto State Executive Council also approved several other contracts and projects. These include N776.34m for the procurement of 10 Mitsubishi Canter vans and N122m for two additional Toyota Hilux vans. Furthermore, the council approved N118.14m for the completion of 30 lock-up shops at the Sokoto State Transport Authority terminal. These projects are part of the administration's ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and public services.
In the education sector, the council approved significant funds for the renovation and rehabilitation of dilapidated structures at various schools and institutions. A total of N844.65m was approved for Government Science Secondary School, Gwadabawa, while N182.26m and N123.91m were allocated for the renovation of Kebbi and Gwandu hostels at Idris Koko Technical College, Farfaru, and Ahmadu Bello Academy, Farfaru, respectively.
The council also approved funds for the renovation of housing units and the purchase of library equipment for educational institutions. Specifically, N168.67m was allocated for the renovation of eight housing units at Shehu Shagari College of Education, and N132.46m for the purchase of library equipment for Shehu Shagari University of Education. Additionally, N550.42m was approved for the construction of a storey administrative block at Aliyu Magatakarda College of Technology and Advanced Studies.
The Sokoto State Government's decisions reflect its commitment to addressing various challenges facing the state, including security, education, and infrastructure. The administration aims to create a more secure and conducive environment for residents and students alike. The implementation of these projects and laws will be closely monitored to ensure their effectiveness in achieving the government's objectives.
Key points
- The Sokoto State Government has awarded a N1.59bn contract for 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles to enhance security operations against banditry and other crimes.
- The government has also approved a bill for the Sokoto State Banditry Special Prohibition Law, 2026, to penalise and check the activities of armed bandits.
- Several other contracts and projects were approved, including infrastructure and education sector renovations.
