The Sokoto State Government on Monday announced that it plans to ban street begging across the state.

The state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmad Aliyu, who made the announcement said the government would engage the beggars into more useful activities to make them self reliant.

Aliyu said while inaugurating the distribution of Zakkat to the needy at Sanyinna in Tambuwal Local Government that the government would provide for those in dire need of support.

“The state government has concluded all necessary plans in engaging all street beggars to become self reliant by continuously providing their necessary needs.

“This is to eradicate poverty and unemployment among our people across the state.

“This plan will ensure that all the necessary needs are provided to the needy with the full support of the government.

“This is the only way to achieve the desired objectives and promises made by the present administration, both at the state and the national levels,” he added.

Aliyu said the people must however pray for the success of the administration, and protect government property in their locality.

The deputy governor, described Zakat as a major tool in reducing poverty among Muslims, and promised that the proceeds of the Zakat collected would be distributed judiciously.

The Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, who was represented by the District Head of Dundaye, Alhaji Bello Yakubu called on Islamic scholars to always sensitise the people on the true teachings of Islam.

He charged parents to allow their children attend schools in order to become more productive and better citizens.

Abubakar thanked the state government and the Zakkat committee for their effort in reducing poverty and unemployment in the state.

He further urged the people to pray for peace and unity in the country, as well as support government policies and programmes for the overall development of the society.

Earlier, the District Head of Sanyinna, Alhaji Shehu Garba said N240,000, 80 bags of millet and two sheep would be distributed to the needy in the area.

The Chairman of the state Zakkat and Endowment Committee, Malam Lawal Maidoki said their target was to reduce the level of poverty and encourage self reliance among the people. (NAN)

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