Governor Ahmed Aliyu has inaugurated an economic advisory council and tasked it with developing a comprehensive roadmap.

Speaking at the inauguration on Sunday, Mr Aliyu expressed concern over the lack of economic data and weak tax collection systems in Sokoto.

He also highlighted the ongoing challenge of servicing debts inherited from the previous administration.

“Our administration has been grappling with inherited debts. As such, I urge the council to propose practical solutions to these issues. We are counting on you to exceed expectations and provide the crucial guidance needed to accelerate the state’s economic growth,” he said.

Mr Aliyu further urged the council to leverage its members’ diverse expertise in finance, commerce and industry to align with his administration’s strategic agenda for development.

The council’s chairman, Bello Maccido, assured Aliyu of their commitment to advising the government on strategies to reverse Sokoto’s economic challenges and set the state on a path towards prosperity.

“We will focus on identifying key sectors and developing innovative financial solutions to expand the state’s revenue base,” Mr Maccido said.

The chairman further reaffirmed the council’s dedication, promising they would not let the state down.

The council members include Umar Ajiya from NNPCL, who will serve as alternate chairman, ex-vice-chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Lawal Bilbis, Ibrahim Gobir and Ibrahim Danbaba. Others are Abdulkar Bello, Abdullahi Aminu Tafida, Nasiru Yauri, Muhammad Kurfi, Abdulrahman Bashar, Olaseni Oduwole, and Faruk Maishanu.

The commissioners for finance, budget, innovation and, digital economy and justice are also members.

Bashir Achida, the special adviser to the governor on economic affairs, will serve as the council’s secretary. 

(NAN)