On Sunday, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu inaugurated the newly formed economic advisory council, a 19-member committee tasked with addressing the economic challenges faced by the state. This council is led by Alhaji Bello Maccido, with Dr. Bashir Achida serving as the Special Adviser on Economy and secretary of the committee. Among its members are notable figures including Umar Ajiya from the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, former Vice Chancellor of Usman Danfodiyo University Prof. Lawal Bilbis, and several senators and commissioners responsible for finance, budget, and innovation. The diverse backgrounds and expertise of the committee members are intended to foster a comprehensive approach to the state’s economic issues.
During the inauguration ceremony held at the Government House in Sokoto, Governor Aliyu expressed concern over the insufficient economic data and inadequate tax collection in the state. He highlighted the financial strain from inherited debts stemming from the previous administration. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Aliyu called upon the council to proffer viable solutions to improve the economic landscape of Sokoto and to accelerate the state’s financial recovery. He underscored the necessity for the committee to leverage their diverse experiences in finance, commerce, and industry to assist the government in implementing its strategic agenda for economic development.
In his address, the chairman of the economic advisory council, Alhaji Bello Maccido, reassured the governor of the committee’s commitment to providing sound guidance aimed at reversing the economic setbacks experienced by the state. Maccido articulated that the council’s responsibilities include advising on key sectors for focus and offering innovative financial solutions designed to broaden Sokoto’s financing options. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of strategic planning and the need for a united approach to tackle the persistent economic challenges.
The establishment of the economic advisory council reflects a proactive stance by Governor Aliyu’s administration to engage qualified experts in the quest for economic rejuvenation. The emphasis on creating a more robust framework for economic planning aligns with the governor’s vision of transforming Sokoto into a thriving economic hub. With more targeted financial strategies and better data management, the council is expected to enhance the robustness of the state’s economy, which has been historically hampered by inefficiencies and limited fiscal resources.
Members of the council bring a wealth of experience and insights to the table, with backgrounds in various sectors including academia, finance, and governance. This multidisciplinary approach is crucial as it fosters comprehensive assessments of existing economic conditions and the potential impacts of proposed policies. The collaboration between the government and the council is anticipated to result in informed decision-making processes that prioritize sustainable development and economic growth across the state.
Ultimately, the formation of the economic advisory council is a critical step towards addressing the systemic economic challenges in Sokoto State. Through strategic advising and innovative solutions, the council is positioned to support the government in achieving its economic objectives. The expectations set forth by Governor Aliyu highlight the significance of collective effort and expert guidance in the pursuit of economic prosperity for all citizens of Sokoto. As the council begins its work, there is optimism that its initiatives will foster long-term financial stability and growth within the state.
