March 2024 – Zamfara State Government

Mar 27 2024

GOV. LAWAL VISITS WATER RESOURCES MINISTER, URGES COMPLETION OF ZAMFARA DAM PROJECTS

Governor Dauda Lawal has urged the Federal Government to enhance the completion and utilization of the ongoing dam projects in Zamfara State.

The governor appealed on Tuesday during an official visit to the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsav.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the meeting addressed essential matters related to water projects in Zamfara.

According to him, Governor Lawal highlighted the importance of dams in providing a sustainable water source for the state’s growing population and their potential to boost agricultural productivity and overall economic growth.

The governor emphasized the need for the Federal Government to allocate adequate funding to complete these projects, given their critical role in addressing the state’s water scarcity and promoting socio-economic development.

Furthermore, Governor Lawal appealed for the completion and utilization of the dam project in the state to scale up irrigation farming.

In his remark, the Minister promised Governor Lawal that a team of specialists from his ministry would be sent to Zamfara shortly to evaluate the water conditions and recommend the required actions comprehensively.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 27, 2024

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Mar 26 2024

INSECURITY: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL MEETS PRESIDENT TINUBU OVER BANDITRY IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal met with President Tinubu to discuss the alarming increase in banditry and related criminal activities in Zamfara state.

The meeting was held on Tuesday behind closed doors inside the president’s office at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the governor briefed President Tinubu on the security situation in Zamfara, particularly the resurgence of attacks in some areas.

According to the statement, President Tinubu and the governor discussed various strategies and measures to tackle the insecurity, including enhanced security deployment, intelligence gathering, and community engagement programs.

The meeting also highlighted the need to address the root causes of the problem, such as poverty and unemployment, which have contributed to the rise in crime in the state.

“Today, Governor Dauda Lawal met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa to discuss critical issues concerning the security situation in Zamfara State.

“During the closed-door meeting, Governor Lawal informed the President that, over the past 13 years, Zamfara State has emerged as the hub of banditry in Northwestern Nigeria.

“The Governor appealed to President Tinubu for presidential intervention in providing the military with adequate personnel, weapons, and logistics, as they are insufficient in Zamfara. He also requested sufficient air support to assist ground troops.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured the governor of his commitment to providing all essential support and logistics to the security forces to guarantee the restoration of peace in Zamfara.

“Furthermore, the President reaffirmed his administration’s position against negotiating with bandits and paying ransoms to kidnappers, actions that he believes only serve to empower them.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 26, 2024

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Mar 26 2024

INSECURITY: DEPLOY MORE TROOPS TO ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL URGES CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF

Governor Dauda Lawal has called for an increase in the number of troops deployed to Zamfara state.

On Monday, the governor visited the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the governor met with the Defence Chief to discuss the security situation in Zamfara state.

During the meeting, Governor Lawal expressed concerns over the resurgence of attacks in some parts of Zamfara.

He appealed to the Chief of Defence Staff to deploy more troops and necessary weapons to the state.

“Today, I am here to discuss the issue of insecurity that has been affecting Zamfara State. I was here a few months ago for the same reason.

“Recently, there have been recurring issues with bandit attacks in some areas of the state.

“Yesterday, an attack occurred in Tsafe LGA, resulting in fatalities, including a member of our Community Protection Guards (CPG). Military operational vehicles, including those of the Community Protection Guards, were set on fire by bandits.

“We are experiencing a shortage of personnel in Zamfara as some officers have been redeployed to the Northeast.

“Farmers are unable to tend to their farms, and the continuous assaults have claimed numerous lives.

“I would like to use this opportunity to urge you to mobilize and deploy troops to Zamfara. Such action is crucial for combating the threat of insecurity and reinstating peace in the state.

“The deployment of security forces will undoubtedly uplift the people’s spirits and discourage criminals from engaging in their nefarious deeds.”

Responding, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, appreciates Governor Lawal’s efforts in fighting banditry in Zamfara.

He said: “I want to express my appreciation for your efforts in combatting insecurity. We plan to adjust and reposition resources using the same approach as Maiduguri.

“We are convening a conference with all theatre commanders and stakeholders to address the issue of attacks, which deeply saddens us.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 26, 2024

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Mar 19 2024

GOV. LAWAL CHAIRS EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, APPROVES THE PROCESS OF IMMEDIATE REMODELLING OF ZAMFARA STATE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the process of complete remodelling and renovation of Yeriman Bakura Specialist Hospital to meet the challenges of the growing need for tertiary medical services in Zamfara State.

The governor approved the process for the renovation of the specialist hospital on Monday during the nineteenth (19th) Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the process would begin immediately and that the remodelling is expected to restore the facility to a modern and functional health centre.

According to the statement, the decision was made in line with the recent declaration of a state of emergency in the Zamfara health sector.

He said: “Yesterday, while presiding over the Executive Council meeting, Governor Lawal approved the process for the immediate remodelling of the Yeriman Bakura Specialist Hospital.

“The State Specialist Hospital has been in disrepair for a long time and has inadequate medical equipment. As a result, patients have had to travel to Sokoto or Kaduna for kidney dialysis and other critical medical tests.

“Alhaji Mustapha Falaki, the Managing Director of Minjirya Health Services Limited, presented to the council on the specialist hospital’s current state and the next steps in the remodeling process.

“As part of the hospital’s remodeling plan, new structures and medical facilities will be built, machines will be equipped, and end-user training will be provided to make the Specialist Hospital a modern and well-equipped healthcare facility that will provide quality healthcare services to the people of the state.

During the council meeting, several crucial matters were discussed. One of the main topics of discussion was the state social protection policy. This policy aims to bring together various Social Protection Interventions that align with the vision of Zamfara State as one of Nigeria’s development hubs. The policy sets out a clear set of strategies and policies to help guide public and private investments in social protection.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 19, 2024

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Mar 13 2024

RAMADAN BONUS: GOVERNOR LAWAL PAYS LEAVE GRANT TO ZAMFARA WORKERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the payment of a leave grant to the civil servants of Zamfara State as a Ramadan bonus.

On Wednesday, civil servants working for the state and local government in Zamfara began receiving their leave grant.

A statement issued in Gusau by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the worker’s leave grant is 10% of their annual salary.

According to him, the leave grant paid as a Ramadan Bonus is a welfare package given to all civil servants to mitigate the country’s current economic conditions.

The statement emphasized that Governor Lawal’s administration has been worker-friendly. “Upon assumption in office, Governor Lawal settled outstanding salaries owed by the previous government, paid the backlog of gratuities, and approved a 13th-month salary for the state’s workers.

“Due to the country’s current economic circumstances, Governor Lawal has decided to show gratitude for the hard work and commitment of the civil servants and political appointees. As a kind gesture, he has approved the payment of a leave grant to all workers.

“The governor has always been committed to civil servants’ welfare, ensuring they receive their salaries and bonuses on time. The payment of the leave grant is just another example of the governor’s concern for the well-being of the people of Zamfara State.

“The government has already disbursed payments for leave grants to state and local government workers and pensioners. Additionally, political appointees received a bonus to assist them during the holy month of Ramadan.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 13, 2024

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Mar 13 2024

INSECURITY: GOVERNOR LAWAL SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER ON TINTED GLASS, UNLABELLED BREAD, AND ILLEGAL SALE OF PETROLEUM IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has signed an Executive Order prohibiting the sale of unlabelled bread, the packaging of bread in sacks, the sale of over 50 liters of petroleum, and the use of tinted glass in Zamfara State.

Governor Lawal signed the Executive Order yesterday in his office at the Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said Executive Order No. 02 and Order No. 04 2024 address various concerns identified as contributing factors to the security challenges in the state.

He said the restriction order was issued due to recent attacks in some communities across the state.

“Following the recent spate of attacks on some communities across some local government areas of the State, particularly Zurmi, Shinkafi, Kaura Namoda, and Talata mafara, and the resurgence of activities of banditry, kidnapping in communities and some major federal highways in the state.

“Governor Lawal has signed Executive Order No. 02 2024, banning the sale of unlabelled and packaged bread in sacks and prohibiting some unwanted activities in the state.

“All bakery production companies and enterprises must label their bread with the full address and particulars of their production factory with immediate effect.

“All petroleum filling stations in the state shall not sell more than fifty (50) litres of petrol to vehicles at a time. Petroleum product sales at filling stations are also restricted from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“Transportation/sale of bread is restricted within the capital of every local government: for Gusau, the restriction is limited to the following areas: Damba—Zaria Road; Gada Biyu—Sokoto Road; Command Guest House along Kaura Namoda Road; Gusau Garage—Dansadau Road.”

Furthermore, Executive Order No. 04, 2024, has been signed by the governor to prohibit tinted glass by all vehicle owners in Zamfara.

“Vehicle owners are prohibited from covering their license plate numbers while driving.

“All vehicle owners must possess their vehicle particulars and ensure compliance with the provisions of the Zamfara State Road Traffic Law No. 2, 2015, or any other relevant laws.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 13, 2024

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Mar 11 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL CHAIRS EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, CHARGES CABINET ON ACCOUNTABILITY

Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in governance, urging all cabinet members to prioritize their responsibilities.

On Monday, the governor presided over the Zamfara State Executive Council meeting held at the council chambers, Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the council discussed various issues related to the state’s development agenda, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.

According to the statement, it was the eighteenth executive council meeting since the rescue administration began.

The council discussed the progress in infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and security, among other important matters.

At the meeting, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the state achieves its developmental goals.

The governor encouraged council members to be diligent and efficient in their respective roles.

Furthermore, the council was briefed with a comprehensive report on the status of the ongoing renovation of the state’s secretariat complex. The report provided detailed information on the progress made so far, including the completion of the first phase of the renovation project.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 11, 2024

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Mar 9 2024

EDUCATION IS A FUNDAMENTAL TOOL FOR DEVELOPMENT, SAYS ZAMFARA GOVERNOR

Governor Dauda Lawal has identified education as a fundamental tool for the development of Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the governor was honoured with an award from pupils of Leadsprings International School at the Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that the students presented the governor with seven critical expectations for the future.

According to the statement, the expectations for the future of Zamfara state include the capital city of Gusau, the health sector, Zamfara airline, technology, agriculture, the economic and commercial sector, and industries and companies.

While addressing the pupils, Governor Lawal reaffirmed his commitment and determination to revamp the education sector.

“Education is a top priority for my government, second only to security. However, our education system has not been performing well in the past. In particular, the state of Zamfara consistently ranked at the bottom of every education index. This is why I declared a state of emergency in education.

“These include recruiting qualified and competent teachers, providing necessary teaching materials and infrastructure, and introducing innovative teaching methods.

“My administration will spare no effort to transform the education sector to meet the state’s and its citizens’ needs.

Governor Lawal expressed appreciation for the quality of education demonstrated by the students and thanked the management of Leadsprings International School for presenting him with the honour award.

“I am impressed with the quality of your presentation and believe that Leadsprings International School students are well-prepared to compete anywhere in the world.

“Thank you for the honour. My government will encourage you in whatever way possible. I call on other private schools to emulate your good work.”

In his remarks, Leadsprings International Schools proprietor Mr. Danjuma Sule expressed the school’s desire to align with the educational initiatives of the Zamfara State government.

“We are impressed by your government’s commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment throughout the state. We are also pleased with your decision to promote education for girls. Currently, Leadsprings International Schools has 386 girls enrolled in different classes, and we are dedicated to nurturing them to become valuable contributors to the development of Zamfara.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 09, 2024

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Mar 9 2024

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS OFFICE COMPLEX OF ZAMFARA SECURITY TRUST FUND, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to support the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund.

On Friday, the Zamfara Governor led the commissioning of the Security Trust Fund office complex in the state capital, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the Zamfara Security Trust Fund is chaired by the former Inspector General of Police, MD Abubakar.

According to the statement, the work done to bring the Office Complex up to standard exemplifies the Board of Trustees’ efficiency and commitment to fulfilling their mandate.

During the commissioning ceremony, Governor Lawal urged other states to establish similar funds, harmonize plans, and foster a regional approach to security issues.

He said: “As the Security Trust Fund settles into a structured environment to work, I urge collaboration with similar funds being set up by other states in our region. Together, we are stronger.

“The Fund has so much to do as it gets to work. An added area of focus for the Fund should also be the desensitization of our children and youth from the mindset of living in times of conflict and the simmering ethnic profiling that has sadly reared its head in some communities as a resultant effect of banditry. This is necessary for meaningful development to be sustained.

“Under the able and capable leadership of the Fund’s Chairman, IGP M.D Abubakar (Rtd), and other Eminent Members of the Board of Trustees, we look to your collective immediate and purposeful impact on the lives of our people as you all have always done throughout your personal and professional lives.

“We place that trust in you, for we know you all have the shoulders to carry such a burden. Thank you for your service and duty to your home state.

“A recurring decimal in my interactions wherever I go when these pockets of attacks happen is the commendable efforts of the Community Protection Guards that we have just formed in mitigating the severity and in search and rescue.

“We intend to continue our efforts at community engagement, continuous sensitization, and ensuring adherence to the rules of justice, fairness, and the code of conduct that all CPG members have sworn to.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 09, 2024

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Mar 8 2024

GOV. LAWAL PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO MADA TOWN, VOWS TO PROSECUTE KILLERS OF LATE SHEIKH ABUBAKAR

On Friday, Governor Dauda Lawal visited Mada town to offer condolences over the killing of the community’s chief Imam.

Sheikh Abubakar Hassan Mada was murdered by a suspected group of Vigilantes last week in Mada town, Gusau local government in Zamfara State.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal performed the Juma’at prayer at the Mada central mosque.

According to the statement, the governor offered condolences to the family of the late Sheikh Abubakar Hassan Mada, the district head, and the community.

During his address to the Juma’at congregation, Governor Lawal promised to do everything he could to ensure justice for the unfortunate incident.

“I am here to reassure the good people of Mada town that my government is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the perpetrators of the incident are brought to book.

“No stone would be left unturned in the pursuit of justice for the murder of Sheikh Abubakar. We would work tirelessly to ensure that the late Sheikh and his family get the justice they deserve.”

“I was not in Gusau when the incident occurred. However, upon receiving the distressing news, I immediately contacted the heads of all relevant security agencies in the state to take appropriate action.

“The police have initiated an immediate investigation into the extrajudicial murder. I solemnly swear by Allah that we will ensure that anyone found guilty of this heinous act will be brought to justice.

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

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