In a major step toward building a structured safety net for its most vulnerable residents, the Sokoto State Government has officially inaugurated the newly constituted Social Protection Policy Committee.
Gatekeepers News reports that the strategic body is tasked with fortifying state-wide social frameworks, reducing economic inequality, and ensuring 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 highlighted that robust social safety nets are vital for long-term development.
He emphasized that social protection must be approached not merely as a government discretionary effort, but as a fundamental human right and a core stabilizer for social cohesion.
Charging the committee with its mandate, Dr. Achida urged members to craft and drive policies designed to insulate marginalized populations from systemic poverty, sudden economic shocks, and widening inequality. He ‘outlined inclusivity, sustainability, and efficiency’ as the three main pillars guiding the committee’s operational focus.
“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, optimize 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 strong confidence in the selected committee members and reaffirmed the Ministry’s full institutional backing to ensure the policy’s successful rollout.
Accepting the mandate, the newly appointed Chairman of the Committee and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Alhaji Ibrahim Haliru Dingyadi, characterized the role as a solemn call to public service. On behalf of the committee, he pledged total dedication and diligence in delivering a responsive policy framework for the state.
The inauguration event 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.
