Focus More On Food Security, Obasanjo Tells Govs

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised state governors in Nigeria to focus more on food security.

Obasanjo also urged the governors to prioritise policies that enhance people’s well-being.

He made this known at the unveiling of 136 housing units purchased at the cost of N1.8 billion by the Sokoto State

Government for allocation to low-income earners on Wednesday.

The former president was in Sokoto on a two-day visit, unveiling projects executed by Gov. Ahmed Aliyu, as part of his one-year anniversary.

Obasanjo described food security as a priority, followed by personal health and security situation, adding, "Good feeling enhances health and other productive engagements.”

He acknowledged the efforts of Aliyu, whom he described as a ”leader running a good race in the areas of transportation, road construction, agriculture and housing projects.

"Your strong, energetic and resilient qualities in leadership have made you to get it all within the space of time of your one year. Putting all these in place will surely brighten your chances of seeking a future mandate without stress.

Meanwhile, Aliyu said the housing projects was to fulfil his campaign promises to deliver human-oriented projects that would improve the welfare and standards of the people in the state.
Aliyu explained that the state government had set up committees to complete and initiate similar projects across the state.

According to him, the projects include road construction, youths and women empowerment, water supply and agricultural inputs for farmers as well as equipping hospitals.

"We are determined to continue developing the state for proper repositioning and providing state-of-the-art facilities at all sites including Islamiyya schools, markets and playgrounds, among others,” he said.

Aliyu said that the houses were acquired from the Federal Government for the citizens in the state to own bases on an owner-occupier basis in order to address the growing need for shelter in the state.

He appreciated the former President for honouring the state’s invitation to be part of history.