By Abubakar Dan Bala
Ideally, no citizen of Nigeria should be discriminated against as a “non-indigene” simply because they choose to live and pursue legitimate means of livelihood in a part of the country other than their place of origin. By embracing this constitutional and moral ideal—and putting it into practice by recognizing all Nigerians residing in Sokoto State as indigenes—Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto shines brightly as a beacon of national unity and a champion of inclusivity.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu has consistently conducted himself as a just and fair leader, whose use of executive and administrative powers is worthy of emulation. It is no surprise, then, that even his political opponents often liken him to the revered Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, the great Premier of the Northern Region.
While there are many instances that speak to Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto’s leadership qualities, this piece focuses on one outstanding achievement: his bold decision to remove the indigene–non-indigene dichotomy in Sokoto State. This policy move promises to foster greater national unity and social cohesion.
This long-standing issue has been a sore point in Nigeria’s journey toward true unity.
During his 2025 Sallah homage to the governor, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, acknowledged this landmark policy. He noted that “all Nigerians residing in the state are treated as indigenes, thereby giving everyone a sense of belonging.” According to the Sultan, “in Sokoto State, we don’t have non-indigenes, but rather members of the resident community.” This signifies that the government under Governor Aliyu does not discriminate in delivering the dividends of democracy.
Observers see the award-winning Governor of Sokoto State as a trailblazer. Months before the Supreme Court granted financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local governments, Governor Aliyu had already signed an executive bill guaranteeing a three-year tenure for elected local government officials in Sokoto State. This bill also ensured non-interference in their statutory allocations from the Federation Account.
Similarly, when other states grappled helplessly with the menace of street begging, Governor Aliyu initiated reforms in the Almajiri Islamic education system. While others merely complained, he took action.
Now, he has also taken practical steps to eliminate the “non-indigene” syndrome from Sokoto State’s political and social lexicon. Though this might seem insignificant to some, especially those who haven’t experienced the humiliation of exclusion due to being labeled “non-indigenes,” it is a monumental gesture to many Nigerians.
Truth be told, labeling fellow citizens as non-indigenes is not only morally wrong—it is also unconstitutional. According to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), a citizen retains full rights anywhere in the country.
Chapter IV, Section 42(1) clearly states:
“A citizen of Nigeria of a particular community, ethnic group, place of origin, sex, religion or political opinion shall not… be subjected… to disabilities or restrictions… to which citizens of Nigeria of other communities… are not made subject.”
It also prohibits according advantages or privileges to citizens based on these same factors. Yet, violations persist in various states and sectors, where individuals are denied accommodation, jobs, political participation, or government programs simply because they hail from elsewhere.
It takes a conscientious leader like Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto to not only understand this constitutional provision but to act on it—even without prompting. His personal conviction, not just legal obligation, drives his inclusivity agenda.
Despite the illegality of such discrimination, many Nigerians still face open or subtle exclusion—even by agencies meant to uphold national unity. Some have been denied access to land, driven from polling units, or left out of development programs due to their place of origin or beliefs.
Nigeria cannot develop if this trend continues. The United States, for example, has been developed largely by immigrants—including Nigerians—whose efforts are not hindered by such divisions.
In contrast, in some Nigerian states, entire neighborhoods are neglected in the distribution of social amenities simply because they are populated by “non-indigenes.” These constitutional violations often occur openly, without repercussions.
Thankfully, Governor Ahmad Aliyu is not that kind of leader. His actions in the Sahara area of Sokoto metropolis speak volumes. Previous administrations ignored this settlement in development plans—whether by oversight or subtle discrimination. Notably, Sahara is home to many Nigerians originally from outside Sokoto State. Governor Aliyu broke this trend, transforming the area by constructing roads and improving infrastructure, thereby elevating its living conditions.
Some skeptics may argue that Sokoto State hasn’t entirely eliminated indigene–non-indigene disparities—perhaps citing limited cabinet representation for non-natives. But as the saying goes, building a nation is a journey, not a destination. The important thing is that the journey has begun—and in Sokoto State, it is well underway under Dr. Ahmad Aliyu’s watch.
Governor Aliyu’s leadership style stands as a beacon of hope for a more unified Nigeria. By treating all residents of Sokoto State as equal citizens, he demonstrates that our diversity can be a source of strength, not a weakness. As Nigeria continues to navigate its complexities, Sokoto offers a shining example for others to follow.
