From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr, has indicated readiness to assist the Sokoto State government in achieving its nine-point agenda for good governance.
Mr Mills made the promise in Sokoto while on a courtesy visit to the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu, on Thursday.
He noted that aside from being hospitable, the state is considered important because of its religious and cultural relevance.
According to him, he was in the state to understand their challenges, how the US had been helping, and how best they wanted the US to assist.
“I am here for several reasons. I recently arrived in Nigeria as the US Ambassador to Nigeria, and I know Sokoto as an important cultural and religious place in Nigeria.
“I am here to talk to the people of the state to find out what the issues are, what the US has been doing for the people of the state, and to talk with you to hear what the priorities are.”
The US envoy, who expressed satisfaction with the 9-Point Agenda of the state governor, added that he had come to discuss further those issues, which include security, health, education, and more.
“I am here to discuss further with all of you on those issues and how best to help out,” he said.
Responding, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu appreciated the US envoy, saying the state has benefited a lot from US interventions, such as those of USAID and others.
“These interventions have been of great help in poverty reduction, increasing democratic experiences, and much more in the state.”
The governor appealed for more assistance, especially in the areas of security, women and youth empowerment, education, and other areas of development.
While giving his stewardship since he assumed office, the governor said that in less than two years in office, he has carried out several activities in the areas of security, water supply, human capital development, and more.
The governor said he believes states are in better positions to address their challenges because they are familiar with the terrain and the people.
Governor Aliyu further noted that he has so far provided 130 vehicles to security agencies in the state as a way of aiding their work, in addition to restoring and increasing incentives for security personnel deployed to the state.
“My government also set up local security known as Community Guard, all geared towards ensuring a safer state for all,” the governor further explained.