Reported by Simon Daniel Yusuph l Journalist at Weng Global
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has approved the appointment of eight new district heads to fill vacant traditional leadership positions across the state, following recommendations from the Sokoto Sultanate Council.
The appointments were announced on Monday, September 28, 2026, in a statement signed by Sa’idu Maccido, Secretary of the Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
Eight Traditional Rulers Appointed
According to the statement, the newly appointed district heads are:
- Salihu Kadadi — Sarkin Arewan Kadadi
- Isah Gidan Madi — Ausan Gidan Madi
- Gidado Dabagi — Sarkin Gabas Dabagin Ardo
- Hayatu Dallatu — Uban Kasar Tudun Wada
- Abdullahi Muhammed Danchadi — Sarkin Zamfaran Danchadi
- Umar Shehu Goronyo — Sarkin Gabas Goronyo
- Kabiru Marafa — Ajiyan Tsaki
- Muhammadu Buhari — Ardon Wajake.
The appointments are intended to fill vacant traditional positions in the affected communities.
Sultan to Conduct Turbaning Ceremony
The Sokoto Sultanate Council said the formal turbaning ceremony for the newly appointed traditional rulers would be conducted by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at a later date.
The council congratulated the appointees and wished them success and divine guidance as they assume their traditional responsibilities.
It also urged the new district heads to justify the confidence placed in them and contribute to peace and development within their respective communities.
Traditional Institutions and Community Leadership
District heads occupy an important position within the traditional administration structure in many parts of northern Nigeria. They often serve as links between communities, traditional institutions and government authorities, particularly on matters involving local administration, community relations and peace-building.
In Sokoto State, the traditional institution is headed by the Sultan of Sokoto, whose Sultanate Council participates in matters concerning traditional leadership.
The latest appointments therefore affect not only the individuals selected but also the communities and traditional structures in which they will serve.
NUJ Congratulates New District Head
Among the newly appointed traditional rulers is Hayatu Dallatu, who is a member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Sokoto State Council.
The NUJ Sokoto State Council congratulated Dallatu on his appointment as the new District Head of Tudun Wada.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Usman Bunni, and secretary, Muhammad Nasiru, the council said it was pleased that one of its members had been entrusted with the traditional responsibility.
The appointment gives Dallatu a new role within the traditional leadership structure of the state while maintaining his connection to the journalism community.
Wider Significance
The appointments come at a time when traditional institutions remain relevant to community engagement and peace-building in Sokoto State.
The state government has recently placed significant emphasis on security and community stability amid continuing concerns about banditry.
On September 24, Governor Aliyu said his administration would continue working with security agencies to combat banditry and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons to their communities. The governor said the state was recording improvements in its security efforts.
The state government has also recently approved additional funding and security equipment as part of its efforts to strengthen security operations. On September 26, the government announced the approval of ₦4.85 billion for interventions covering security, education and transportation, including the procurement of 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles for security operations.
Against that backdrop, traditional leaders are positioned to remain important figures in community-level engagement and local peace efforts, although the specific responsibilities of the newly appointed district heads will depend on the established traditional and administrative structures governing their respective areas.
What Happens Next
The immediate next step is the formal turbaning of the eight appointees by Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The Sultanate Council has not announced a date for the ceremony in the statement announcing the appointments.
The new district heads are expected to assume their traditional responsibilities following the formal installation process and contribute to the administration and development of their respective communities.
Weng Global – stories beyond borders
Sources
Sokoto Sultanate Council
Sokoto State Government
Punch Newspapers
