Governor Dauda Lawal approved the appointment of Sole Administrators for each local government area in Zamfara.
The Sole Administrators were appointed alongside Secretaries and Supervisory Councillors across the 14 local government areas of the State.
In a statement issued in Gusau on Friday, the spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the appointed Sole Administrators were carefully selected based on their past achievements and track records.
He said: “In his bid to serve the people of Zamfara, Governor Dauda Lawal has appointed Sole Administrators for the 14 local government areas.
“The appointment includes that of the Local Government Secretaries and Supervisory Councillors as announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Mallam Abubakar Nakwada.
“The appointments are Bashar Musa Anka, sole administrator for the Anka local government area; Sa’idu Danbala, sole administrator for Bakura local government; Isiyaka Ibrahim (Majasirdin Birnin Magaji), sole administrator for Birnin Magaji local government; Nasiru Muhammad, sole administrator for Bukkuyum local government; Nura Umar Bungudu, sole administrator for Bungudu local government; Aminu Nuhu, sole administrator for Gummi local government area; Yahaya Garba, sole administrator for Gusau local government.
“Others are Kasimu Sani Kaura, sole administrator for Kauran Namoda local government; Yahaya Giwa Maradun, sole administrator for Maradun local government area; Yusuf Sani Bindi, sole administrator for Maru local government; Lukman Jafar, sole administrator for Talatan Mafara local government; Aliyu Adamu Barmo, sole administrator for Tsafe local government; Junaidu Muhammad Barade, sole administrator for Shinkafi local government area; and Aminu Atiku Zurmi, sole administrator for Zurmi local government area.
“These appointments are for six months and are subject to confirmation by the Zamfara State House of Assembly.
“However, the Secretaries of the local government areas and Supervisory Councillors need not be confirmed by the State House of Assembly.”
Governor Dauda Lawal has revealed that the immediate past administration of Bello Matawalle has embezzled billions of Naira from the Zamfara Airport, which was subsequently abandoned.
The Government accused the previous administration of a dubious transaction of N6,775,949,561.50 for an abandoned Cargo Airport project in the state capital.
In a statement on Thursday, issued in Gusau, the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the government was shocked to discover the previous administration’s substantial financial mismanagement of the abandoned Zamfara Cargo Airport project.
He added that Governor Lawal’s administration will bring those responsible for financial recklessness to justice.
The statement read in parts: “Upon assuming office, Governor Dauda Lawal, to determine the progress of work done and the corresponding value to monies paid to contractors directed for the assessment and identification of the best approach to timely completion of the project constituted a five-member committee for that task and to further review among other things pre-contract activities.
“The committee’s report disclosed, amongst other things, that Avic International Engineering Limited provided engineering and architectural designs. The report revealed that the contractors produced contract bills of quantities without the input of the relevant departments of government in vetting the designs, specifications, and bills. In contrast, contract documents were unavailable at the time of contract award.
“The contract was awarded to Avic International Engineering Limited vide contract notifications No. FGPC/SEC/NOT/2019/055 dated 15th May 2019 in the sum of N11,551,899,123.00 0nly. The committee also found that the preliminary approvals from the relevant regulatory bodies in the aviation industry were not obtained before the commencement of work on the project.
“A consultant, BJ Aerotronic Limited, was employed to take charge of the project and to obtain all the necessary approvals from the relevant regulatory bodies only after work had commenced on the site. Payments were made to the contractors without valuation and essential certification from the relevant Agencies of Government.
“Therefore, the committee suggests discrepancies between the contract Bills of Quantities and engineering, architectural designs and specifications.
“Total net payments made to the contractors were 30% as Advance Payment of the sum of N3,465,569,736.90 by Ministry of Finance (MOF) on June 19, 2020; the sum of N2,310,379,824.60 by Ministry of Finance (MOF) was again paid as the second instalment on June 19, 2020, in the name of a loan, (a term not familiar in governments’ contract procedures and management’); another payment of N825,000,000.00 by Ministry of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs (MLGCA) was made as the third instalment on October 25, 2021.
“These payments amounted to N6, 600, 989, 561.50. After which N125,000,000.00 was paid to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on January 31, 2022, while BJ Aerotronic Limited was paid N50,000,000.00 on January 31, 2022, supposedly as a consultancy fee.
“Of all the payments, only the advance payment had payment vouchers, with mandates available in the other payments. There were no indications of any deductions for Value Added Tax (VAT), Withholding tax and other taxes.
“The administration of former Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle made a total payment of N6,775,949,561.50 on the abandoned project whose completion level was less than 20%.
“Furthermore, evaluations carried out by four different independent firms of experts and relevant agencies of government have shown that the total value of work done is N2,249,636,040.73, representing 19.47% overall.
“It is our finding that the payments made to the contractors were not only incommensurate with the level of work executed but grossly incomparable with work done.
“The committee concluded that the contractors were no longer interested in executing and completing the project, taking into cognisance the fraudulent ways the project has been carried out, because the project’s life span had elapsed, and the contractor did neither attempt nor show any intention to apply for an extension of time to continue with the work.
“After all the evaluations carried out by the four reputable consultants, the contractors are supposed to refund the Zamfara State government over N4,526,313,520.77.
“As a responsible government, we will continue to pursue all cases of mismanagement and ensure that what rightfully belongs to Zamfara is returned for the benefit of its people, and anyone involved in the mismanagement is brought to book.”
Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalising the education sector in Zamfara State.
On Monday, Governor Lawal conducted an inspection tour of the College of Nursing and Command Science Secondary School (Girls) in the state capital of Gusau.
According to a statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the inspection tour was characterised by a meticulous assessment of the facilities, considering every detail to ensure that these educational institutions meet the highest standards.
He added that throughout the tour, Governor Lawal demonstrated his commitment to education by closely examining every aspect of the facilities and leaving no stone unturned in his quest to identify improvement areas.
“The inspection tour began with Command Science Secondary School (Girls), where Major SN Odeh received and briefed the Governor and his entourage on the condition of the school and the management’s prayers to the government.
“In his remark, Governor Lawal mentioned that he had met with the Commander of the Army Education Corps last week and had promised to conduct an inspection tour of the army schools in Zamfara. The objective of the visit was to evaluate the schools and identify areas that needed improvement so that the government could enhance the education standard of the state.
“The Governor said he is with the Commissioner of Education, who has also seen and heard all the school’s challenges. He promised to assist in ensuring that Command Science Secondary School operates effectively.
“Following a thorough inspection of the classrooms, dormitory, kitchen, and dining hall, Governor Dauda Lawal firmly reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to enhancing the overall condition of Command Science Secondary School.”
“At the Zamfara State College of Nursing Sciences Gusau, Governor Dauda Lawal was received by the provost, Zayyanu Muhammad Isa. The Provost acknowledged the Governor’s past contributions to the college, including constructing 250-capacity hostels for males and females and other facilities before he was elected as the State’s governor.
“The Governor vowed to do more in the college and other institutions of learning across the State.”
Governor Dauda Lawal, on Saturday, charged the people of Zamfara to embrace peace for the development of the State.
The Governor was the guest of honour at the annual Maulud celebration, known as Maulud Rabidah, held in the state capital of Gusau.
A statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that various prayers and festivities mark the annual Maulud celebration.
He added that the Governor’s presence at the event reflects the government’s commitment to fostering peace and tolerance among the people of the State.
He said: “Governor Dauda Lawal delivered a strong message at the annual Maulud celebration, urging the people of Zamfara to take responsibility for one another’s well-being and work together towards a peaceful and prosperous state.
“The Governor tasked the people to uphold moral values and follow the Holy Prophet’s (SAW) teachings, especially to train children to seek knowledge and good virtues.
“Governor Lawal also announced his administration’s plan to modernise the infrastructure of the Zawiyya Islamic Schools in Gusau, Kauran Namoda, and Gummi local governments.
“As a leader who cares for the welfare of the people, Governor Lawal passionately implores religious leaders and the public to actively participate in identifying and reporting any pressing issues that require the government’s immediate attention.
“Furthermore, the Governor elaborated on the crucial measures the Government is taking to address insecurity in the State. He urged the citizens to keep praying and avoid any actions that may provoke divine retribution.”
Governor Dauda Lawal, on Friday, reiterated his administration’s uncompromising position of not engaging in dialogue with bandits across Zamfara.
Governor Lawal’s presence as the Guest of Honour at the weekly preaching session organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs was an opportunity to highlight the importance of self-discipline and forthrightness among religious leaders.
A statement by the Spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the weekly preaching session has been a long-standing tradition in Zamfara.
He added that the Governor charged leaders from all sectors to uphold truthfulness in their engagements and to be unwavering in their prayers for a peaceful Zamfara State.
The statement said: “Governor Dauda Lawal, during a remark at the Weekly Preaching Session in Gusau, elaborated on the negative impact of negotiating with bandits, stressing that it only encourages them and creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity for law-abiding citizens.
“He emphasised the need to acknowledge the reality – the criminals have proven themselves untrustworthy in past dialogues. Continuing to negotiate with them would not produce any favourable results. It is time to reassess our approach and consider more forceful tactics to handle the matter decisively.
“Governor Lawal further urged traditional and religious leaders to always align with the truth, to voice out the truth no matter who is involved.
“He tasked political leaders and citizens to prioritise the state’s security over politics, emphasising that the peace and stability of Zamfara is non-negotiable.”
Earlier, The Executive Chairman of Zamfara State Zakat and Waqaf, Sheikh Ahmad Umar Kanoma, presented a lecture on the significance of dialogue, outlining the prerequisites of genuine dialogue in Islam and circumstances that render engaging in dialogue null and void.
Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to continuous support for Army Schools in the State.
The Zamfara State Governor, On Thursday, received the Commander of the Nigerian Army Education Corps (NAEC), Major General Bello Alhaji Tsoho, in Gusau.
A statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that the purpose of the visit was to establish a strong relationship between the Army Education Corps and the Zamfara State Government.
He added that the Commander of the Corps seeks continuous support for the educational establishment of the Army in the State.
He said: “Governor Lawal emphasised that education is a top priority for his administration. The government is taking all necessary measures to make a positive impact.
“The Governor assured the Corps Commander of his commitment to provide all necessary assistance to the Gusau and Talata Mafara Army schools.
“The State Government is committed to improving the education system in Zamfara. As part of his efforts, Governor Lawal will visit the Command Science Secondary School in Gusau and the Army Secondary School in Talata Mafara to assess the condition of these schools. By identifying areas of improvement, he hopes to create a better learning environment for our children and ensure they receive a quality education.
“He promised to sign the MoU within a week, sponsor indigenes for enrolment into the Army Schools, and improve infrastructure for an enabling environment.
Earlier, the Commander of the Corps, Major General Bello Alhaji Tsoho, noted that Zamfara is taking significant steps towards enhancing the educational system by having two Army Schools, even though most Northern States currently have none of such institutions.
“I am here to inspect Army Schools, interact, and build relationships with His Excellency and the Zamfara State Government.
“One of the main issues is signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Government and the Army Education Corps.
“There is also the issue of low patronage. I appeal to you to kindly consider sponsoring indigenes to enrol in the schools.”
Governor Dauda Lawal has taken a compassionate step to assist the 66 Zamfara students evacuated from Sudan.
Sixty-six Zamfara State Government-sponsored students were evacuated from Sudan due to the ongoing war.
A statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that on Monday, the commissioner of Education briefed members of the State Executive Council on the intervention of the Government.
He added that 14 out of 66 students who were studying Nursing could not take their final exams due to the war in Sudan.
The statement read in parts: “Last month, Governor Dauda Lawal authorised the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology to make arrangements with the Sudanese University management to conduct exams for 14 Zamfara students, to be held in Nigeria, which is not among the four designated examination centres of the University across the world.
“The State Government requested the approval of Usman Danfodio University Sokoto’s teaching hospital facilities for the examination.
“The Zamfara State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency Dauda Lawal, displayed exemplary compassion by covering the flight expenses, accommodation, and feeding of three examiners from Sudan University who came to Nigeria for the exams. This gesture exemplifies the government’s commitment to supporting education and creating a conducive environment for learning.
“The Zamfara State Government transported and accommodated 14 students from Gusau to Sokoto, where they took their final exams from September 23rd to September 30th, 2023.
“Moreover, the government is arranging full scholarships for the remaining 52 students to complete their studies at various universities in Nigeria.
“The Ministry has already collected the names of 30 students out of the 52 who have completed their documentation with the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja. The documentation is required for their placement in Nigerian universities. Once all documentation is complete, the Ministry will facilitate the placement of the remaining 12 students.”
Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare in Zamfara State.
Governor Lawal paid an unscheduled visit to Anka General Hospital on Friday.
A statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the unscheduled visit to Anka General Hospital showed a commitment to ensuring that healthcare facilities are operating at their best.
He added that the governor inspected the hospital facilities and visited cholera patients.
The statement said: “In Anka local government, Governor Lawal visited the General Hospital for an assessment of the condition of the hospital where he promised to provide the necessary resources to upgrade the hospital and equip the medical staff with the essential tools and equipment to deliver top-notch healthcare services.
“The Governor reaffirmed his determination to enhance the overall health and well-being of the people of Zamfara by ensuring they have easy and economic access to top-quality healthcare services.
“Furthermore, Governor Lawal took the opportunity to personally pay his respects to the Sarkin Zamfaran Anka, the Emir of Anka, His Royal Highness Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad, who is recovering from injuries sustained during a fire in his residence. The Governor expressed his sympathy and wished the Emir a speedy recovery.”
Governor Dauda Lawal, on Thursday, sought more support for the Internally Displaced Persons across Zamfara State.
The Governor appealed for support while receiving the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, in Zamfara State.
A statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that the minister visited Zamfara for the official opening and handing over 40 fully completed and functional houses as a refugee resettlement city project.
He added that the Governor accompanied the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to visit the Federal University Gusau, where they met with university authorities and students rescued from kidnappers.
The statement read in parts: “In his speech at the opening ceremony, Governor Lawal appreciates the efforts of other federal agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for the various humanitarian support and interventions they have provided to the State over the years and recently.
“He said that it is a well-known fact that Zamfara State faces formidable security challenges, and these challenges can only be resolved through effective collaboration with the Federal Government, neighbouring states, and all stakeholders in security matters. Above all, we must always do what is correct at the right time.
“Lawal further reiterated that it is regrettable to admit that banditry has led to many impoverished individuals, orphans, widows, and internally displaced persons, especially in rural areas. This has placed the State at the top of the list of significant flashpoints of violence and vulnerable persons/households in the Northwestern States and the entire nation.
“Regarding the resettlement city for Persons of Concern in Zamfara State, it is essential to note that since the inception of this administration, we have been addressing the issue of Internally Displaced Persons in all parts of the State. Providing an IDP resettlement facility in the State Capital, Gusau is a welcome development.
“We appreciate the Federal Government’s collaborative efforts in alleviating the suffering of our people. In this regard, the Government and the good people of Zamfara State remain grateful for this kind gesture.”
While delivering her remarks, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his unending efforts in ensuring the well-being of the displaced persons across the State.
“It gives me great pleasure to be present at this momentous occasion of the official opening and handover of the resettlement city to the Government and people of Zamfara State for the benefit of the Persons of Concern.
“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Governor Lawal, who is compassionate about the plight of the displaced persons in the State.
“I have heard all the pleas by the State government. I would pass the message to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for more support and interventions for the displaced persons in Zamfara.
“The beneficiaries of these houses would also benefit from the Federal Government’s monthly cash transfer to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal,” she said.
Governor Dauda Lawal, on Thursday, received the older woman who was displaced by bandits and featured in a viral video.
A recent video shows a mother and her children being displaced by bandits forced to eat grass to survive.
A statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the plight of the displaced woman highlights the urgent need for action to address the root causes of displacement and ensure that families have access to necessities.
He added that the Governor hosted the displaced woman as a demonstration of his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and welfare of all citizens in Zamfara.
“Today, Governor Dauda Lawal received Hauwa’u Halliru, a victim who lost everything due to banditry.
“Governor Lawal expressed his commitment to ending insecurity in the state and offered condolences to families affected by banditry.
“As a compassionate leader, Governor Lawal promptly provided the displaced woman with a roof over her head and a comfortable and well-furnished home.
“He reassured her of his government’s determination to feed her family with sufficient food and other necessities, ensuring that she could rebuild her life with dignity and security.
“Furthermore, His Excellency instructed the Commissioner of Education, Science, and Technology to ensure her children’s immediate enrollment and full scholarship.
“He also urged all relevant authorities to intensify efforts in identifying vulnerable families facing similar challenges and provide them with necessary support.
“In his remarks, Comrade Salisu Umar, the Chairman of the Human Rights Defenders, expressed his deep admiration for the State Governor’s commitment to the safety and welfare of the people.
“He lauded the Governor’s proactive approach and stated that it was the first time he had witnessed such a display of leadership in the State, adding that his words echoed the sentiment of the people, who have long awaited a leader who puts their needs first.”
