No fewer than 732 orphans in Sokoto state on Friday benefited from a N1 billion scholarship grant provided by the Muslim World League.

Gov. Ahmed Aliyu, who inaugurated the disbursement, described the gesture as a significant opportunity that would complement the government’s efforts to improve the living conditions of the less privileged in the state.

“When we assumed office, we continued to implement strategies to ensure that orphans and vulnerable groups receive the utmost support.

“Our administration has increased the cash allocation for orphanages and the monthly stipends for people living with disabilities.

“This commitment is aimed at easing their living conditions and improving their standing in society,” he said.

Mr Aliyu expressed his gratitude to the league for the initiative and also commended Sen. Aliyu Wamakko (APC-Sokoto North), its member, for his sustained commitment to supporting the less privileged.

The governor assured that the state government would continue to collaborate closely with the league to ensure the well-being of the people of the state.

In his remarks, Mr Wamakko explained that the delay in the disbursement of the scholarships was due to sanctions imposed on certain international organisations by the Western countries.

Mr Wamakko, who chaired the distribution exercise, said that the 732 beneficiaries were carefully selected from a total of 1,146 registered orphans in the state.

The lawmaker added that the scholarship programme would be a continuous initiative.

732 orphans, both males and females, were drawn from 15 out of the 23 LGA in the state.

The benefiting LGAs included: Sokoto North, Sokoto South, Wamakko, Silame, Bodinga, Kware, Shagari, Yabo, Tureta, Dange/Shuni, Binji, Illela, Goronyo, Gwadabawa and Rabah.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of an award of excellence to Mr Wamakko for his efforts in promoting the activities of the league.

(NAN)