The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jnr, has praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s 9-point agenda, highlighting its focus on key areas such as security, education, and youth empowerment.
He made these comments on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Sokoto. Ambassador Mills Jnr expressed his admiration for the governor’s plan, noting that it addresses issues that are vital to the state’s development.
“I have heard and am impressed with the 9-point agenda the governor has laid out. It touches on many areas that are important to you, including security, education, and youth empowerment,” he said. The ambassador also stated that his visit was aimed at assessing the progress of US-backed programs in the state.
Describing Sokoto as significant in both the religious and political landscapes of Nigeria, Ambassador Mills Jnr acknowledged the state’s importance.
In response, Governor Aliyu thanked the US government for its various initiatives, particularly the USAID programs, which he said have had a significant impact on the people of Sokoto. He commended USAID’s contributions to healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and humanitarian efforts in the state.
Governor Aliyu also outlined his administration’s efforts to improve the living conditions of Sokoto residents, focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, water supply, quality education, and youth empowerment.
On the issue of state police, the governor mentioned that discussions were ongoing between the federal and state governments to develop a framework for its implementation.
Regarding the recent EndBadGovernance protests, Aliyu stated that while the organizers initially aimed to voice concerns about governance, the protests were later hijacked by opposition groups and hoodlums, leading to chaos.
The governor concluded by expressing his gratitude to Ambassador Mills Jnr for his visit and wished him a successful tenure in Nigeria.
