The Sokoto State Government has commenced the implementation process of the Proof of Address (PoA) initiative with a sensitisation programme held for all local government areas of the state.

The sensitisation session, which took place on Wednesday, brought together representatives from the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs), officials of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and key stakeholders involved in grassroots administration. The event was chaired by the Sokoto State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Abba Shehu Tambuwal.

According to a statement issued by ALGON, the engagement marked the first phase of the PoA rollout in the state, aimed at familiarising local government officials with the objectives, processes, and operational requirements of the Proof of Address framework. Participants were given ample opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on implementation procedures to ensure uniform understanding across all LGAs.

The session was anchored by the Sokoto State PoA Coordinator, Abubakar Mai’akwai Ladan, who provided detailed explanations on the PoA process, its importance in strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and enhancing data-driven planning at the local and state levels.

ALGON further disclosed that a broader sensitisation exercise involving additional stakeholders, including community leaders and relevant agencies, will be conducted at a later date as part of efforts to ensure seamless implementation of the initiative across Sokoto State.

Meanwhile, momentum around the Proof of Address initiative continues to grow nationwide. The governors of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, and Kogi State, Usman Ododo, have formally granted approval for their respective states to adopt and implement the PoA.

These approvals come as several other states across the federation prepare to commence sensitisation programmes ahead of full-scale operations of the Proof of Address initiative in their jurisdictions.

The PoA initiative is designed to support effective governance, enhance citizen identification, and improve planning and service delivery at all levels of government. Stakeholders have expressed optimism that its adoption across states will strengthen administrative efficiency and promote inclusive development nationwide.