Aliyu Wamakko, senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has appointed 18 new aides to curb the high rate of unemployment in his constituency, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

NAN reports that Mr Wamakko told its correspondent in Abuja on Sunday that “the new appointments were also aimed at further reducing unemployment in the state.”

Those appointed as Special Assistants (SAs) are Usman Musa Bachaka, Shehu Dangi Balle, Ummaru Dan Habbi, Bello Danbaba, Garba Dan Gambo, Garba Gidan Ajiya.

Others are Usman Fakko, Bello Buba Kaurar Kimba, Umar Ahmad, Al-mustapha Alhaji Ada, Tsalhatu Dantama and Umaru Umaru Falanje, Aliyu Bahago, Abubakar Dantama, Umar Nakande, Aliyu Lumu Usman, Muhammad Sahabi Gidan Madi and Nura Shehu Dalhatu.

The new appointees are made up of former local government council chairmen, secretaries or former lawmakers and retired top civil servants, among others.

“The gesture is also to further reinvigorate my legislative duties at the National Assembly with a view to ensuring effective representation of my constituents.

“This new set of appointees would join other numerous others to help me in ensuring the diligent representation of my constituency as well as adequately providing the needs of my constituents,” the senator was quoted as saying.

He said, “more Special Assistants would come on board in the nearest future as we strive to better the lots of my constituents.”

Mr Wamakko chairs the Senate Committee on Defence.