By Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Sokoto Professionals Network (SPN) has received a significant boost from Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, for its efforts in providing opportunities for professionals to develop their skills and contribute to both state and national development.
The network, which boasts over 1,000 registered members, has been actively engaged in various capacity-building initiatives, including training young people in solar installation and maintenance.
This recognition came during a one-day management retreat and capacity-building workshop held at Dan Guest Palace in the state.
In his goodwill message, Governor Ahmad Aliyu emphasised the importance of strategic and critical thinking for effective professional practice in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing work environment.
Aliyu stated that strategic thinking enables professionals to analyze complex situations, identify opportunities, and develop innovative solutions.
The Sultan, represented by Alhaji Sani Umar Jabbi, stressed the need for investment in human capital development.
He warned that without adequate measures, the growing population in the country could become a “population for destruction instead of a population for development.”
He commended SPN’s initiative in providing employment opportunities and skill acquisition for its members and called for partnerships to create more opportunities for children and youth, thereby investing in their future.
Earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Umaru Ajiya Isa, who was represented by Alhaji Yawale Ladan, commended the network’s leadership for their vision and resilience in building the capacity of professionals in the state.
Isa noted the importance of unity of purpose and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve the network’s objectives.
In his remarks, the Chairman of SPN, Engr. Zayyanu Tambari Yabo, said the retreat aimed to prepare the network’s management and members to deal with contemporary and emerging challenges which are key to career progression and the state’s progress.
He shared the network’s plans to build an integrated world-class facility that will offer professionals opportunities to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“The center will serve as the network’s secretariat with a conference facility, training facility, administrative facility, recreational facility, and sporting facilities”.