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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Conflict & Security

Sokoto approves $1.76bn for 1,000 motorcycles to boost security

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Sokoto State Government approved N1.76 billion for 1,000 motorcycles to enhance security operations.
  • The motorcycles will supplement 62 armored vehicles recently procured by the state.
  • The council also approved funds for renovating educational and healthcare facilities, including a technical college and a primary health center.

The Sokoto State Government has allocated N1.759 billion to purchase 1,000 Bajaj motorcycles, aiming to bolster security operations and combat banditry across the state.

This significant investment in mobility for security agencies follows the recent procurement of 62 armored vehicles, costing N27 billion. The motorcycles are intended to improve the reach and effectiveness of security personnel, particularly in challenging terrains and areas affected by banditry. The approval was a key resolution from the sixth regular meeting of the Sokoto State Executive Council, chaired by Deputy Governor Idris Muhammad Gobir.

Government officials stated that the procurement is part of a broader strategy to equip security agencies with necessary logistics to tackle criminal activities. The council emphasized that the motorcycles would complement existing resources and enhance operational capacity.

Beyond security, the executive council also approved substantial funds for infrastructure development in education and healthcare. Approximately N723.17 million is earmarked for renovating Government Technical College, Runjin Sambo. Other approved projects include funds for rehabilitating A.A. Raji Special School, the College of Nursing Sciences, and hostels at the College of Basic and Remedial Studies. Healthcare infrastructure also received attention, with N133.67 million approved for constructing a perimeter fence at Wamakko Primary Health Centre. The government also allocated funds for vocational training equipment and water supply scheme maintenance.

The procurement of the 1,000 motorcycles is aimed at complementing the recently procured armoured vehicles and enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies across the state.

โ€” Sokoto State Executive CouncilThe council explained the strategic purpose behind acquiring the motorcycles.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.