In bid to support the less privileged during Ramadan, the Sokoto State Government has increased the number of Ramadan feeding centres from 130 to 155, ensuring more people have access to meals for breaking their fast.
The State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto made this announcement during the inauguration of the 2025 Ramadan Feeding Committee at Waziri Junaidu History and Culture Bureau, Sokoto.
The governor said the initiative, “originally introduced by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, was aimed at providing meals to the poor, needy, and physically challenged individuals throughout the holy month”.
He emphasised the importance of the feeding centers in supporting fasting Muslims.
“Last year, 130 centers and 300 individual locations provided food, chicken, beef, and fruits to those in need.
“With the increase to 155 centers, the government aims to decongest existing sites and make it easier for more people to access meals.”
Recalled that the state governor on Monday in addition to feeding centers, announced financial assistance for Islamic scholars and religious leaders, which includes 200,000 each for 300 senior Islamic scholars, 100,000 each for 100 Ulamas and 50,000 each for 2,900 Malaman Zaure across 23 local governments
Additionally, 990 bags of maize were distributed to Imams, Na’ibs, and Mu’adhins in 90 Jum’at Mosques in Sokoto metropolis.
Governor Aliyu urged citizens to pray for the success of his administration, particularly in the fight against banditry and criminal activities. He also called on wealthy individuals to support the initiative by establishing additional feeding centers in their communities.
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Maihula, has shed more light on the financial commitment behind the Ramadan Feeding Programme, emphasizing the N998 million budget dedicated to feeding 20,000 people daily across 155 centers.
Speaking on the cost breakdown, he highlighted the government’s effort to ensure that quality food reaches those in need.
Dr. Maihula explained that the budget covers essential food items, which includes Rice and Millet, staple grains purchased in bulk to provide energy-rich meals.
“Chicken and Bean Cake (Akara), fruits and water, for hydration and vitamins for a healthy Ramadan fast as well as Dates, a traditional Ramadan staple, sourced in large quantities for beneficiaries.
He reassured the public that strict measures are in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the program’s implementation, with over 1,400 Jobs created, with women to benefit most.
Beyond feeding thousands, the N998 million budget is also an investment in job creation, with 610 women expected to be employed as cooks, receiving daily wages.
“500 workers will be involved in logistical and operational duties at the feeding centers, with aditional roles in security and coordination will ensure smooth operations.
Dr Maihula stressed the importance of security, assuring that personnel will be stationed at all feeding centers to maintain order.
He also urged community leaders and well-meaning individuals to support the initiative, emphasising that poverty alleviation requires collective effort.
and then