FIC Report (Sokoto State) – The Federal Government has officially launched the North – West liquefied petroleum Gas (LPG) in Sokoto, reaffirming its commitment to promoting clean, affordable and energy solutions across the country, reducing dependence on firewood and biomass fuels.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Sokoto on Wednesday was led by the Minister of State for petroleum Resources (Gas), Dr. Ekperikpe Ekpo.
Speaking at the event, the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for selecting Sokoto as the host state for the landmark programme. He described the initiative as “timely, visionary and highly commendable”, aligning with both environmental and economic priorities of the state.
According to the Governor, the programme aims to reduce desertification and land degradation in Sokoto state, a sahelian region vulnerable to environmental challenges. He highlighted various efforts by his administration to combat environmental degradation including the annual tree planting campaign across all 23 Local Government Areas of Sokoto State. He also emphasized the potential impact of the LGP initiation on public health, youth empowerment, and climate resilience, urging stakeholders to ensure the affordability and availability of gas particularly in the rural areas.
The Governor, also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for prioritizing oil exploration activities in the Kalmano area of lllela Local Government, Sokoto Basin.
The event marked a significant step in Nigeria’s commitment to cleaner energy sources and sustainable development, with Sokoto State pledging full support for the initiative.
The event included the distribution of gas cylinders to women and youths, emphasizing empowerment and awareness as the key component of the programme. Some of the beneficiaries, Kabiru Muhammed and Fatima Aliyu, commended the Federal Government for initiating the programme and also called on other beneficiaries to judiciously utilize the opportunity in ensuring success of the programme.
The event was attended by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Idris Muhammad Gobir and many other dignitaries.
Signed
Ramatu Sani (Mrs)
HOC
FIC, Sokoto.
