Sokoto – Former military President Ibrahim Babangida on Monday inaugurated the new presidential villa acquired, refurbished and furnished with N610 million by the Sokoto State Government.
Gen. Babangida inaugurated the new building and also inspected some township roads.
The former Nigerian leader said: ”Sokoto sai Aliyu,” meaning Sokoto is for Aliyu, refering to Gov. Aliyu Wamakko.
Babangida, who expressed happiness at the visit, commended Wamakko for “a job well done”.
Wamakko described Babangida as ”our leader who has retired but not tired”.
Wamakko said the former military president’s name would be written in gold “anytime one writes the history of Nigeria”.
”Your visit here today has shown your love for the people of Sokoto State and Nigeria in general and we will continue to cherish this noble gesture.
”The present administration wants to leave far-reaching legacies as Sokoto is renowned as the home of exemplary leaders in the country,” he said.
Wamakko said that leadership required absolute sacrifice, adding: ”I am a leader with unique grassroots support.”
The governor said that the presidential villa was aimed at providing an ultra-modern edifice for the ”honourable hosting of visitors coming to the state daily”.
The governor said the structure had been adequately furnished and would be routinely maintained to provide comfort for those who would be residing in it.
”The structures will also be protected from all forms of abuse to make sure that they last longer,” Wamakko added.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Sahabi Gada, commended Wamakko for his “foresight on issues of good governance”.
Babangida also inaugurated some township roads constructed by the state government in Sokoto town and its environs.
The roads are in Gwadabawa, Lapai, Talata-Mafara and Anka areas.
He also inspected some ongoing multi-billion naira projects, including the Murtala General Hospital and the 38 megawatts Independent Power Project built at N3.8 billion in Sokoto. (NAN)