The Sokoto State Government has approved N1 billion for its 2026 Ramadan feeding programme, with plans to serve 34,000 meals daily to vulnerable residents across the state during the holy month of Ramadan.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu officially flagged off the Ramadan social intervention programme on Sunday at the History Bureau, describing it as a critical welfare initiative designed to ease hardship for fasting Muslims and promote compassion, unity, and community support.
170 Feeding Centres to Operate Statewide
Aliyu disclosed that the number of Ramadan feeding centres in Sokoto has been increased from 155 to 170, following growing public demand. Each centre is structured to serve about 200 beneficiaries at a time, ensuring wider coverage across communities.
“The meals will be hygienic, well-packaged, and of high quality. Ad hoc staff have been engaged to ensure smooth operations throughout Ramadan,” the governor assured.
The expansion aligns with the state’s broader poverty alleviation and food support initiatives during Ramadan 2026.
Strengthening Islamic Values and Social Welfare
Governor Aliyu noted that the Ramadan feeding programme in Sokoto forms part of his administration’s commitment to promoting Islamic values and enhancing social welfare. Other related efforts include:
Rehabilitation of mosques and Islamic schools
Payment of monthly allowances to Jumu’ah mosques
Expanded welfare support for vulnerable groups
He urged religious organisations, philanthropists, and community members to complement government efforts, stressing that collective responsibility is key to ensuring no one goes hungry during Ramadan.
19-Year-Old Programme Continues Legacy
The governor highlighted that the initiative was first introduced 19 years ago under former governor Aliyu Wamakko. Since its inception, the programme has consistently provided relief to thousands of residents, reinforcing Sokoto’s long-standing commitment to social protection.
Committee Assures Transparency
Chairman of the Ramadan Feeding Committee, Aliyu Attahiru, confirmed that all logistics have been put in place to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective service delivery.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Jabir Maihulla, urged committee members to discharge their duties with sincerity, discipline, and fear of Allah.
Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, Malam Yahaya Na Malam Boyi commended the governor’s dedication to social welfare and conveyed royal support and prayers for the programme’s success.
Official Launch and Distribution
The launch event attracted top government officials, lawmakers, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, and community leaders. It concluded with the distribution of food items to designated centres, marking the formal commencement of the 2026 Sokoto Ramadan feeding programme.
