Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko is renowned for his philanthropy, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the less privileged. From his childhood to his current stature, he has consistently shown empathy toward those struggling to make ends meet.
As a blue-blooded prince growing up in Wamakko town, he was known to frequent nearby fields with other boys, especially during the rainy season, to pluck grasses for animal feed and sell them at the local market. The proceeds were often given to the needy in his community and among his peers.
Those who grew up with him recall a deeply ingrained sense of humanity that was evident even in his early years. This virtue has continued to define him, propelling him to always prioritize others before himself.
During his career as a civil servant, Senator Wamakko supported and mentored countless individuals, helping them become productive members of society. His office and home were sanctuaries for workers and everyday people seeking assistance.
His empathy became even more pronounced during his time as Chairman of Sokoto Local Government and, later, as Governor of Sokoto State. These positions amplified his commitment to public service and broadened his reach across all social strata.
As governor, Wamakko significantly expanded humanitarian support, particularly targeting the most vulnerable and impoverished citizens. He prioritized healthcare to ensure a healthy society and reduce disease, maternal mortality, and child deaths. Numerous hospitals were rebuilt, rehabilitated, or newly constructed in underserved areas.
One of the most impactful health reforms was the introduction of mobile clinics, which delivered primary healthcare to remote communities. By consistently fulfilling counterpart funding obligations, he attracted international donor agencies to support the fight against deadly diseases.
Wamakko’s belief that “health is wealth” underpinned his efforts. According to him, only a healthy population can drive sustained economic growth and development.
To institutionalize support for those with serious medical conditions, he established a department in the Ministry of Health and a Special Intervention Fund under the Secretary to the State Government’s office. These initiatives provided lifelines to numerous civil servants and ordinary citizens, enabling them to access medical treatment both within Nigeria and abroad.
Even after leaving office, Wamakko has continued these humanitarian efforts. He sponsors medical outreach programs and covers the medical bills of patients with verified conditions. His tenure in the Senate has only deepened his sense of duty, as he continues to fund treatment for patients in specialized hospitals across and beyond the country.
A unique hallmark of his medical interventions is their impartiality—regardless of status or background, those in need receive help. His support has saved countless lives and brought relief to families across Sokoto State.
His outreach programs have consistently focused on eye-related conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma, as well as treatments for hernias, knee injuries, and other ailments. Recently, a medical outreach treated around 5,000 individuals with various eye conditions. Following public demand, Senator Wamakko has approved another round of interventions set to begin soon.
Through it all, Senator Wamakko remains undeterred. His enduring dedication is rooted in the belief that showing care is a sincere way to express gratitude for the trust and loyalty of the people he serves.
