Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has disbursed N143 million to 76 traders affected by fire outbreaks at Sokoto Old Market and Central Motor Park. The governor fulfilled his promise on Wednesday to help victims rebuild their businesses. The fires occurred in July 2026 and caused significant damage to both commercial centres. The financial support aims to help affected traders recover and resume their daily business activities.
Speaking at the disbursement ceremony, investigation committee chairman Gandi Muhammad praised the traders for cooperating during the verification process. He explained that the money was not formal compensation for their losses. Instead, the state government provided the funds as a compassionate gesture to support business recovery.
“The highest beneficiary received N25 million, while the amounts given to other beneficiaries varied based on the verified extent of their losses,” Muhammad said.
He also urged the beneficiaries to pray against future disasters.
The fire outbreaks destroyed shops, goods, and other valuable business items. At Sokoto Old Market, the inferno affected bicycle, motorcycle, clothing, and cosmetic sections. It destroyed more than 50 shops, including stocks, spare parts, and cash reserves.
Meanwhile, the fire at Sokoto Central Motor Park damaged makeshift structures, passenger stalls, and commercial shops. The incident disrupted transportation services and small businesses across the area. Preliminary assessments put the combined property losses at hundreds of millions of naira.
Following the incidents, Governor Aliyu established a nine-member committee to investigate the causes and assess the damage. The panel also reviewed claims from traders seeking government assistance. After completing its checks, the committee verified 76 genuine victims out of 94 initial claims. Several beneficiaries thanked the governor for keeping his promise shortly after receiving the committee’s report. They also pledged their continued support for his administration.
The N143 million payout is expected to help affected traders restore their businesses and rebuild their livelihoods.
