by Akan Ido

According to the governor of Sokoto State, the state is soon to join the South-South states by becoming an oil producing one. Aliyu Wamakko made this disclosure while receiving the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, who paid him Sallah homage on Monday.

He said the state government is making necessary arrangements in exploring the abundant crude oil deposits in the state which is expected to boost its economy.

The governor expressed his administration’s readiness to exploit the crude saying:

“We will soon write the Federal Government on the issue with a view to complying with the necessary guidelines.

“The oil deposits, when fully explored and exploited, will certainly boost the socio-economic status of the people of the state as well as the nation’s economy.”

Reports say the governor went on to promise the visiting Sultan that arrangements are being concluded on the implementation of a new salary structure for traditional rulers across the state.

He said, “A committee set up to look into the remunerations of traditional rulers in the state had completed its assignment. We will soon come up with a white paper on the new salary for the traditional rulers and send a bill to the House of Assembly to legalise the package.’’

He commended the support his administration has so far received from the traditional institution.

The Sultan of Sokoto replied saying he was on the visit to felicitate with the governor on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

“We are leaders representing the people, we must facilitate all efforts to further improve their living standard,’’ he said.

He also thanked the governor for providing new official vehicles to all the district heads and for the rehabilitation of their residences.