GOV. Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto State on Friday disbursed N130 million as grant to 1,329 dyers, tanners, leather processors and workers.
The governor said in Sokoto that the gesture was aimed at making the beneficiaries self-reliant and productive.
“It is also aimed at providing more employment opportunities, curb poverty and youths’ restiveness,” he added.
Wamakko appealed to the beneficiaries to use the money for the purpose it was meant for.
“You should use it to boost your various vocational trades and not to marry more wives or use it for other unintended purposes,” he counselled.
Reports indicate that the grants were disbursed to assist the beneficiaries enhance their businesses.
Wamakko was represented by Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, the state Commissioner for Health and the Deputy Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor also promised to routinely monitor and evaluate the impact of the gesture on the beneficiaries.
He also announced that the state government had earmarked N3 million for the establishment of a modern tannery for the use of the beneficiaries.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Alhaji Mu’azu Ma’aji, the Chairman of Annuri Tannery Association, commended the state government for the gesture.
“We will use the money wisely and properly and we will never do anything to defeat the objectives of the gesture,” Ma’aji said.