Ahmed Aliyu has announced plans to disburse financial grants to traders once the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Sokoto Central Market is completed.

The market, widely regarded as the commercial hub of Sokoto State, was partially destroyed by fire, disrupting business activities and affecting hundreds of small and medium-scale enterprises.

Speaking during an Iftar with leaders of the Traders’ Association at the Presidential Lodge in Sokoto, the governor confirmed that arrangements for the Sokoto traders grant disbursement have been finalised.

However, he stressed that payments will only begin after traders return to properly rebuilt shops.

“It would not make sense to give someone a grant when he does not have a shop to operate from,” Aliyu stated, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustainable economic recovery.

The governor also addressed the controversy surrounding the previous administration’s sale of the market to a commercial bank.

After widespread criticism from traders and residents, Aliyu reversed the sale and awarded the reconstruction contract to members of the traders’ association — a move praised as a pro-trader economic policy.

According to the governor, the reconstruction project is progressing steadily and meets quality standards.

He emphasised that boosting commerce and restoring livelihoods remain central to his government’s urban renewal and economic revitalisation strategy.

Business leaders, including Alhaji Bello Bulaky and other prominent traders, commended the governor for reclaiming the market and empowering local traders to handle the rebuilding process.

They described the decision as a critical step toward protecting businesses and strengthening Sokoto’s commercial sector.

Aliyu assured residents that constructive criticism would not deter his administration from pursuing transformative initiatives aimed at building a more prosperous and economically vibrant Sokoto State.