In a statement issued by his spokesman, Abubakar Bawa, the governor emphasized that the project aligns with Sokoto’s heritage as the seat of the Caliphate, home to centuries-old monuments and artifacts. He stressed that revitalizing these sites would preserve the history of the Caliphate’s founders while creating opportunities for tourists, scholars, and researchers.
The state plans to collaborate with the federal government to develop, protect, and commercialize the sites for sustainable revenue. Agencies have been tasked with drafting a blueprint for the restoration and management of these heritage locations. Notable sites include Hubbaren Shehu, Hubbaren Muhammadu Fodiyo in Degel, Tabkin Kwato, Alkalawa, and Surame—many of which date back to pre-jihad eras but remain underutilized. Analysts suggest that transforming them into competitive tourist destinations through state-federal partnerships could generate jobs and revenue.
Crackdown on Lavish Weddings
Separately, Governor Aliyu warned of strict enforcement of an existing law banning extravagant pre-wedding activities, citing concerns over rising marriage costs that have left many young people unable to wed. Speaking at the same event, he noted that parents and guardians often flout the law through excessive displays of wealth during wedding preparations.
The governor linked the trend to social problems, including immoral behavior among youths pressured by financial demands. He announced plans to convene stakeholders to review the law and ensure compliance, urging parents, Islamic scholars, and traditional rulers to support the measure. Aliyu reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Islamic affairs, citing ongoing mosque renovations, Islamiyya school projects, and support for Qur’anic teachers and preachers.
Sheikh Aminu Wali Ayu Zuru, the event’s special guest, commended the governor for the unprecedented construction and remodeling of mosques and Islamiyya schools over the past two years. The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by Wazirin Sokoto Prof. Sambo Junaid, praised the administration’s policies for aligning with the Caliphate’s traditions.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Mai Hulla, disclosed that several Jumu’ah mosques are nearing completion statewide. He also announced a planned workshop for Islamic preachers in collaboration with an NGO. The event concluded with Sheikh Aminu Wali inaugurating the mosque and leading the Jumu’ah prayers.
