From Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
The American Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jnr, on Thursday, said Sokoto state was crucial in Nigeria because of its religious and cultural relevance.
Ambassador Mills, who spoke at the Government House in Sokoto while on courtesy visit to the governor, added that aside being hospitable, Sokoto state was lively, and he would want to visit again and again.
He noted that he was in the state to know its challenges, how the US has been helping out and how best the state wants the US to help out.
‘His words: “I am here for some reasons. I recently arrived Nigeria as the American 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 are the priorities””.
The American envoy, who expressed satisfaction with the 9-Point Agenda of the state governor, added that he came to discuss further on issues like security, health, education and others.
Responding, Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, appreciated the American envoy, saying the state has benefited a lot from US interventions through USAID and others .
“”These interventions have been of great help in poverty reduction, increase democratic experiences and lots more in the state,” Governor Aliyu said.
The governor however appealed for more assistance especially in the areas of security, women and youth empowerments, education and other areas.
Giving a brief rundown of his stewardship, the governor said, in less than two years in office, he has carried out lots of activities in the areas of security, water supply, human capital development and more.
Talking specifically on tbe issue of insecurity, the governor said he believed states were at better position to address their challenges because they are familiar with the terrain and the people.
Governor Aliyu further disclosed that he has so far provided 130 vehicles to security agencies in the state as a way of aiding their jobs in addition to restoring and increasing incentives to 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,” he stated.
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