In a political landscape where infrastructure is often concentrated in state capitals, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu has charted a different course by prioritising rural development. While many governors direct public projects to urban centres for visibility and political gain, Aliyu’s approach has focused squarely on grassroots needs, delivering real impact across Sokoto’s 23 local government areas.
In just two years, his administration has executed over 250 projects, most of them in rural areas, under the Nine-Point Smart Agenda. These initiatives span key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, religion, and social services. The projects are not only numerous but also strategically spread, ensuring inclusiveness and addressing the daily challenges of rural communities.
One of the most visible areas of achievement is road infrastructure. From Bodinga to Illela, Yabo to Gada, communities long cut off from economic opportunities now have reliable access roads. In Tambuwal LGA, the Alasan–Faga–Bakaya–Romo road has improved transportation for local farmers. Similarly, in Gwadabawa, the Buzuliga–Lukuwa–Yargada–Malikawa road has opened up a key agricultural corridor. Across all LGAs, similar projects have either been completed or are ongoing, reinforcing the administration’s resolve to boost rural connectivity.
Complementing these are the efforts of the Department of Rural Feeder Roads, which has constructed and rehabilitated over 101 kilometres of rural roads in two years. From the Gudun–Rijiya stretch in Tambuwal to feeder roads in Shagari, Tangaza, and Kwara, these linkages have eased the movement of goods and people, stimulated local economies, and enhanced access to services. In Shagari LGA alone, several roads such as the Dandin Mahe–Mabera and Ehra–Ruggar Mallam routes now provide lifelines to previously isolated villages.
The administration’s attention to rural communities also extends to agriculture. Increased budgetary allocation and prudent spending have raised farm productivity, improved incomes, and helped reduce poverty. Religious and social initiatives have also received attention. Renovation of 63 Jumu’at mosques, stipends for Islamic preachers, and support for vulnerable groups reflect a comprehensive development strategy that incorporates spiritual and humanitarian needs.
Despite these achievements, critics have occasionally accused the administration of favouring urban development. However, such claims have been firmly countered by the state’s APC Chairman, Isa Sadiq Acida, who highlighted dozens of completed and ongoing rural projects as evidence of the governor’s balanced approach.
Governor Aliyu’s leadership style has been described as focused and understated. Unlike some counterparts who prioritise public relations, he avoids self-praise and prefers to let his work speak for itself. The absence of “white elephant” projects and the emphasis on people-oriented initiatives distinguish his tenure so far.
Residents in local governments such as Goronyo, Binji, Rabah, and Wamakko can all point to new or rehabilitated roads that have changed their daily lives. From the Sokoto–Gummi federal road segment to feeder routes connecting remote villages, the scope of work under Governor Aliyu is extensive and verifiable.
This rural-focused governance model has earned Aliyu the informal title of “rural governor” — a badge worn with pride, reflecting his dedication to equitable development. Without plunging the state into debt, his administration has delivered meaningful change that resonates with ordinary people.
In Sokoto today, the results are clear: economic activities have picked up in the hinterlands, access to healthcare and education is improving, and communities once forgotten are now firmly on the map. As his second anniversary approaches, Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s quiet revolution continues to reshape Sokoto State from the ground up — literally and figuratively.
