January 2024 – Zamfara State Government

Jan 31 2024

NORTHWEST GOVERNORS STORM ZAMFARA, AS GOV. DAUDA LAWAL UNVEILS COMMUNITY PROTECTION GUARDS (CPG)

The Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, hosted the Northwest Governors for the official unveiling of the State Community Protection Guards (CPG).

The graduation ceremony for the Community Protection Guards (Askarawan Zamfara) was held on Wednesday at the Trade Fair Complex in the capital city of Gusau.

A statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governors from Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Sokoto attended the graduation ceremony.

He added that the Zamfara State Government is utilising a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional approach to address security challenges for now and in the future.

“Last year, Governor Dauda Lawal approved the engagement of 5,200 guards across 14 local government areas. Today, 2,645 community protection guards graduated in the first batch. “

In his remark at the graduation ceremony, Governor Dauda Lawal said his administration has embarked on the arduous task with a commitment to gradual reforms across all sectors of the state’s economy to instil sanity and accelerate development.

“While we make these efforts, the lofty goals we set out to achieve will remain a mirage as long as the formidable challenge of insecurity remains unaddressed.

“This informed our decision to, among other things, establish the Community Protection Guards, known as Askarawa. The Steering Committee for establishing the Community Protection Guards traversed the 14 Local Government Areas and screened eligible volunteers for enrolment into the outfit.

“We believe that the bulk of the challenges we face as a state and region are borne out of severe neglect in advancing public policy to serve the socioeconomic expectations of our people. We will never take for granted the message of the people of our state through their votes in March 2023.

“Today, therefore, the first batch of the Community Protection Guards, 2,645, are graduating. These young, energetic and vibrant personnel have undergone rigorous training, extensive drilling, and an understanding of the rules of engagement, amongst other skills, in the due discharge of their responsibility of partnering, assisting and working with the security agencies to defend our communities.”

During his speech, Dr Dikko Radda, the Katsina State Governor and chairman of the Northwest Governors, reaffirmed their joint decision not to engage in negotiations with bandits.

“We have gathered here today with a common purpose: to unite against banditry and insecurity in the Northwest. Regardless of political affiliation, we are committed to never negotiating with bandits.

In his speech, the Chairman of the occasion, General Aliyu Muhammad Gusau (Retired), praised the state government for establishing the Community Protection Guards (CPG).

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 31, 2024

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Jan 29 2024

A CALL FOR APPLICATION!

NITDA/COURSERA Scholarship Programme: Cohort 3

A CALL FOR APPLICATION!

NITDA/COURSERA Scholarship Programme: Cohort 3

Application Start date: 24th january 2024, and the training programme will kickoff on February 10th, 2024

Hurry up and apply now, and don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity.

Application link https://links.nitda.gov.ng/coursera2401

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Jan 27 2024

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL ATTENDS ABU CONVOCATION, SAYS EDUCATION REMAINS TOP PRIORITY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has described education as the top priority for building a prosperous and sustainable society.

Governor Lawal highlighted the significance of education while briefing journalists during the 43rd Convocation of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. At the ceremony on Saturday, 25,432 graduates were awarded various degrees.

A statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University and has made significant philanthropic contributions to the university.

He said the Zamfara governor contributed to various learning institutions within and outside Zamfara State due to his passion for education development.

He said: “Today, Governor Dauda Lawal attended the 43rd convocation ceremony of his alma mater, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria.

“Since his days in the banking sector, he has been passionate about education development and has always considered giving back to society.

“Governor Lawal constructed a three-story building comprising lecture halls and offices. Additionally, he donated a new Costa bus to the Department of Political Science, where he graduated.”

In November last year, Governor Dauda Lawal declared a state of emergency on education in Zamfara State.

In line with the declaration, Governor Lawal’s administration has commenced the construction and renovation of 245 schools across the 14 local government areas of Zamfara; provision of two-seater desks for pupils and students, totalling 9,542 across schools in the 14 local government areas; equipping the constructed and renovated 245 schools with 619 tables and 926 chairs for teachers.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 27, 2024

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Jan 24 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL ATTENDS ROUNDTABLE ON INSECURITY, CALLS FOR SYNERGY AMONG STATE GOVERNORS

Governor Dauda Lawal emphasised the need for synergy and a multi-dimensional regional approach to tackle insecurity in the North.

On Wednesday, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) organised a two-day roundtable discussion on insecurity in the North at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.

The governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, stated that the event aimed to encourage community engagement in the fight against banditry and related crimes in the North.

He added that resource persons delivered lectures on critical areas of concern, including a framework for cooperation and collaboration between Federal, State and Local authorities.

The statement read in parts: “Today, Governor Dauda Lawal and other governors attended a two-day roundtable organised by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) with the theme ‘Multidimensional Approach to Tackling Insecurity in Northern Nigeria’.

“There were discussions on how to address insecurity in northern regions, focusing on kinetic and non-kinetic approaches and tackling the proliferation of arms and drugs through local vigilance and border security measures.

Delivering a remark at the event, Governor Dauda Lawal restated that a multi-dimensional approach to addressing insecurity in the North is the way to go.

“I have listened keenly to the various addresses and the discussions, and I believe the necessary foundation has been laid for the panels and syndicates to develop a comprehensive framework for a multidimensional approach to tackling insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

“For us in Zamfara State, we also believe that a multi-dimensional approach is the way to go; however, for Zamfara, in tandem with our border and regional states, we have also resolved to work together and tackle the issue using a regional approach and not operate in silos. This will enhance synergy among the states affected in combating the insecurity challenges. Community engagement in the fight against banditry and related crimes is gaining momentum.

“This synergy becomes even more imperative as Joint operations and intelligence sharing are essential. Just like Katsina State has, we are also commissioning our approved Community Protection Guards, backed by law and a formal structure, who the Military and the police authorities have adequately trained to act as first responders, search and rescue and work with the FG deployed forces and similar entities in other states, in the course of restoring security to our communities.

“We have also set up a Security Trust Fund, like others in the region, to mobilise, manage, and deploy funds to complement government efforts in restoring security. In Zamfara, we are also tackling the identified twin-headed fodder that feeds insecurity: the denigration of Education and high unemployment, especially among the youth, by targeted interventions in those sectors, amongst others.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 24, 2024

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Jan 19 2024

Appointment of Habib Abubakar Gajam as the new Executive Secretary of ZITDA

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Habib Abubakar Gajam as the new Executive Secretary of Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA). With his wealth of knowledge and experience in big data analytics, digital transformation, marketing, entrepreneurship, and innovation as well as proven track record, Habib Abubakar Gajam, Ph.D is poised to lead the agency towards innovative advancements and digital transformation. Join us in welcoming him to this pivotal role.

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Jan 18 2024

I’LL NOT TOLERATE CORRUPT PRACTICES IN MY GOVERNMENT, ZAMFARA GOVERNOR TELLS CABINET MEMBER

I’LL NOT TOLERATE CORRUPT PRACTICES IN MY GOVERNMENT, ZAMFARA GOVERNOR TELLS CABINET MEMBERS

Governor Dauda Lawal said his administration will not tolerate any form of corruption or indolence from members of his cabinet or civil servants in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the Governor presided over the extraordinary council meeting at the council chambers of Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the Extraordinary Council was the first executive meeting of the Zamfara government in 2024.

He added that Governor Dauda Lawal urged all senior appointees, commissioners, and special advisers to understand his mission and make necessary adjustments.

The statement read in parts: To our Commissioners, Heads of Agencies and Departments, you are Chief Executive Officers in your respective MDAs. You are not sole administrators. You are appointed to provide leadership and direction, not to award contracts or share resources to develop our people and communities.

“You are not contractors and suppliers; you are servants of the people. You must remove from your individual and collective psyche the idea that you are appointed to do anything else other than to serve and improve the lots of the people by providing necessary facilities and infrastructure that will support their lives and activities and not to 8 take money from the public till to give to them.

“We must make the difference required to move the state forward; we must do things differently.

“We were not elected by the people of this state to merely replace the faces and characters of those before us. We were elected to change how government business was done, the way that kept us trailing at the tail end of all development indices.”

The Governor further reiterated to the cabinet that he is not in government to make money.

“In that regard, I say this to you all here today: I will not tolerate any act of corruption and indolence from any appointee or civil servant. I have repeatedly said that I am not here to make money, and anyone who harbours a dream of self-enrichment should better either change your mind or honourably resign from the government.

“As I said before, we chose each of you based on the strength of your character, personalities, and capacities. We expect that you will make the necessary sacrifices to change the narrative in our dear state.

“We cannot achieve much if we don’t review our civil service and charter of service. I intend to introduce and make the state civil service a model that will be the proper instrument for the development of our state. I am charging the Head of the Civil Service to immediately develop a workable proposal on how to reform the state civil service and project it to the level of efficiency and effectiveness with the central objective of service of the people.

“While the service is being reformed, I intend to support the capacity building of our workforce. I’m prepared to train our civil servants both at home and abroad. The watchword should be Excel, and I will be there for you.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 18, 2024

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Jan 18 2024

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR BANS TRADITIONAL RULERS FROM ISSUING CONSENT LETTERS FOR MINING

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has signed an Executive Order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the state.

The Executive Order was signed on Thursday at the Council Chambers, Government House, Gusau.

A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the executive order was signed to stop one of the worst trends in the fight against banditry.

According to him, the order has banned all consent letters for mining. “This includes consent letters to individuals, companies, or organisations for mining activities.”

In his remarks, while signing the order, Governor Lawal reiterated that the decision was made due to the severe dangers posed by the rampant issuance of the consent letters.

He said: “Today, in my administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity, I signed an executive order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the 14 local government areas of Zamfara.

“As the Attorney General rightly stated, the mining activities in Zamfara have been identified as a significant factor contributing to the worsening security situation of the state, especially the menace of banditry.

“As a responsible government, it is crucial that we take decisive action to resolve the issue of illegal mining operations that have been contributing to the crisis. That’s why I have signed the executive order. We are taking all necessary steps to rectify the problems bedevilling the issuance of consent letters, which have been recklessly abused.

“We beseech Almighty Allah to guide us as we serve and safeguard the lives and properties of the people.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 18, 2024

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Jan 12 2024

SUPREME COURT VICTORY: WE MUST JOIN HANDS TO RESCUE ZAMFARA, SAYS GOVERNOR LAWAL

Governor Dauda Lawal has called on the opposition party to collaborate with his administration on its rescue mission. He emphasised that the recent Supreme Court verdict is a victory for the people of Zamfara.

On Friday, the Apex court set aside the decision of the Court of Appeal Abuja, which declared the Zamfara Governorship Election inconclusive.

Delivering the lead decision of the Supreme Court, Emmanuel Agim described the judgement of the lower Court of Appeal as perverse and lacked evidential foundation.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, Governor Lawal said that the Apex court verdict reflected the people’s desire for positive development and progress.

According to him, working together is critical to achieving sustainable state development. The success of our collective efforts depends on the active collaboration of all stakeholders. “Let’s prioritise collaboration and work towards a better future for our state.”

He said: “I am thrilled to have received affirmation of my election by the Supreme Court today. This verdict will boost our morale in fulfilling campaign promises.

“Today’s victory is confirmation of the collective decision made by the people of Zamfara State during the governorship election held in March last year. This victory is for all the people of Zamfara State.

“By my campaign manifesto, which serves as a guide for our rescue mission, my administration has taken swift action to liberate Zamfara from the shackles of poor governance.

“I am urging all people of Zamfara, including opposition parties, to unite and work together to rebuild and restore the state.

“My administration is on a mission to rebuild the state, and the Supreme Court’s decision is a victory for the people who trusted me.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 12, 2023,

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Jan 9 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR DISTRIBUTES AGRICULTURAL ASSETS TO FARMERS IN TSAFE LGA

Governor Dauda Lawal has extended the distribution of agricultural assets and vital farm inputs to Zamfara farmers in the Tsafe local government area.

The distribution ceremony was held on Monday at the Tsafe Local Government Secretariat as part of the ongoing COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus distribution program sponsored by FADAMA III.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Zamfara state government has made provisions in the 2024 budget to rehabilitate nine Earth Dams in Tsafe local government area.

According to him, while leading the distribution of agricultural assets, Governor Lawal reiterated his commitment to providing employment opportunities for over 40,000 farmers in the local government.

During his speech, the governor emphasised that the Yanwaren Daji Dam would be crucial in feeding over 2 million people yearly. “The dam’s well-planned drainage system will ensure that clean water is available to the entire Tsafe Local Government Area.

“Agriculture, which accounts for over 70% of our GDP, remains the backbone of our economy. In recognition of this, our program is poised to empower 100,000 farmers across the 14 Local Government Areas with essential farming equipment and seeds over the coming four years.

“Tsafe Local Government Area is legendary for farming and its massive contribution to the GDP of Zamfara State. With the flag-off of this program in this Local Government Area today, we are bringing tremendous opportunities for the farming communities in this industrious Local Government Area. I am confident that this program will go a long way to boosting our farmers’ productivity, thereby alleviating rural poverty and its associated challenges.

“Building on this momentum, we plan to introduce similar intervention projects, such as the integrated entrepreneurship program in Magazu Town. This program will encompass various agro-allied projects, including fisheries, poultry, and livestock fattening. Additionally, it will provide training and starter packs to small-scale businesses in multiple sectors, contributing significantly to our economic diversification efforts.

“Moreover, the project will help combat malaria through innovative methods like rearing tilapia fish while generating substantial income for the beneficiaries through various interventions.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 09, 2024

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Jan 8 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR PRESIDES OVER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, PLEDGES FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF 2024 RESCUE BUDGET

Governor Dauda Lawal pledged a full implementation of his administration’s 2024 rescue budget.

On Monday, the governor presided over the Zamfara State Executive Meeting at the Council Chambers, Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the council discussed essential matters, including the 2024 budget.

According to him, Governor Lawal set the tone for his administration’s programmes and activities for 2024.

Addressing the council, Governor Lawal reiterated the strategies for implementing the programs outlined in the ‘2024 Rescue Budget’. “As we look back, it is crucial to appreciate the contributions and cooperation that have led to the significant achievements of this administration despite the serious economic and social challenges.

“On a positive note, our collective efforts have set a new agenda for governance in the State. In the last seven months, the narrative about Zamfara State has significantly changed for the better and is moving forward in all areas of development.

“When we assumed office on May 29th, 2023, we identified and prioritised key issues affecting the socioeconomic well-being of our people. We focused on restructuring the government’s framework and embarking on governance reform, which are essential in achieving our goals. This was complemented by a series of policy initiatives aligned with our administration’s priorities.

“In this fiscal year, we must not only sustain the momentum but also work harder to meet the targets of the 2024 budget. We will focus on consolidating our gains and addressing the existing gaps, particularly in security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic growth.

“As we begin the implementation of the 2024 budget, I expect to receive reports on the performance of MDAs periodically. A performance delivery unit under the Office of the Governor will soon come on board to assess the performance of all appointees.”

The governor further emphasised that his government has rolled out programs and policies stated in the 2024 Rescue Budget. “Let us remember that our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for every inhabitant of Zamfara State. This requires a collaborative and transparent approach, where every council member plays a pivotal role.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 08, 2024

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