The Sokoto State Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), has called for the re-election of Governor Ahmed Aliyu in 2027, citing investments in security, infrastructure and human capital development.
Usman said a second term for Aliyu would enable his administration to consolidate efforts to tackle banditry, strengthen security operations and sustain ongoing development projects across the state.
The adviser stated this in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday, noting that the administration had invested in security equipment, operational infrastructure and personnel to improve the protection of lives and property.
He cited the procurement of more than 200 Hilux and Buffalo vehicles and 250 motorcycles during the first phase of the government’s security interventions.
According to him, the administration subsequently procured 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles, bulletproof helmets and vests, night-vision devices, thermal imaging equipment and other operational tools at a cost of about ₦27.6 billion.
Usman also disclosed that Aliyu had approved ₦1.7 billion for the purchase of 1,000 Bajaj motorcycles to strengthen security operations.
He added that the government had provided 40 Hilux vehicles and 700 motorcycles to the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps to enhance surveillance and security operations, particularly in rural communities.
The adviser said the government had also invested in security infrastructure, including the construction of military barracks in Illela and a Mobile Police barracks in Tangaza.
Other interventions, he said, included the operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force 119 Composite Group Base in Sokoto, improved communication and surveillance capabilities for the Department of State Services, housing support for security personnel and assistance to forest guards.
Despite these interventions, Usman acknowledged that security challenges persisted in some parts of the state, stressing the need for better coordination among security agencies.
ALSO READ: Nigeria’s envoy, Lola Akande, presents credentials to Denmark’s King
He attributed some operational difficulties to inadequate coordination and called for stronger intelligence sharing and collaboration among security formations to address existing gaps.
According to him, closer cooperation among security agencies is essential to improving responses to security threats and protecting vulnerable communities.
Beyond security, the adviser said the Aliyu administration had pursued road construction and rehabilitation, housing development, classroom construction and renovation, healthcare improvements, and programmes to strengthen skills development and employment opportunities.
He maintained that the administration’s investments across these sectors justified the call for another term, arguing that continuity would allow ongoing projects and interventions to be consolidated.
Usman urged residents to assess the government’s record in security, infrastructure and human capital development ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He appealed to the people to continue supporting the administration’s efforts to restore lasting peace and security, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the state’s security challenges.
The adviser also urged residents to sustain their prayers and cooperation with the government and security agencies, expressing hope that continued collaboration would help restore peace across Sokoto State.