ZAMFARA GOVERNOR COMMISSIONS EDO HEALTH PROJECT, COMMENDS GOV. OBASEKI’S TRANSFORMATIVE VISION

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR COMMISSIONS EDO HEALTH PROJECT, COMMENDS GOV. OBASEKI’S TRANSFORMATIVE VISION

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has applauded Governor Godwin Obaseki for his transformative vision and determination to improve Edo State’s health sector.

The Governor was the guest of honour at the commissioning, matriculation, and 60th anniversary of the Edo College of Health Sciences and Technology (EdoCOHEST) held in Benin City on Wednesday.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that after the college was commissioned, the governors toured the state-of-the-art facilities at the buildings.

While delivering his remark, Governor Lawal proposed that the two states establish a student exchange program, allowing students from sister health schools in Zamfara to attend Edo College for a semester.

He said: “It is truly an honour and a privilege to be here at the instance of my brother and the good people of beautiful and great Edo State to share in this significant milestone in the life of the Edo College of Health Sciences and Technology, especially the matriculating students.

“As we gather here, I am reminded of the transformative power of vision and determination under the capable and visionary leadership of His Excellency My brother Governor Obaseki, who has rekindled hope in Edo State that with a clear vision, Excellence is possible despite all odds in our dear country.

“When I listened to the details of this whole project, I applaud and commend my brother for this shining example of what can be achieved when resilience, vision, and dedication come together.

“For the students being matriculated here today, I will say you are our symbol of hope and pride. You represent the boundless potential of Edo State and our country in general. So do not limit yourself.

“Study and excel in your studies; protect the investment my brother has made here for yourselves and future generations of students.

“Aside from producing health professionals, I pray that this institution will be a bridge to connect people, create jobs, and foster economic growth both within and outside Edo State, as it also stands as a testament to the resilience and potential of unlocked talents.”

Governor Obaseki thanked Governor Lawal for honouring the invitation of the good people of Edo State.

“I am deeply grateful to you, my brother, the Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, for joining me at the tri-faceted event, which included the commissioning, matriculation, and 60th anniversary of the Edo College of Health Sciences and Technology (EdoCOHEST).”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 30, 2024

DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS ZAMFARA, LAUDS GOV. LAWAL’S COMMITMENT TO FIGHT BANDITRY

PRESS STATEMENT

DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS ZAMFARA, LAUDS GOV. LAWAL’S COMMITMENT TO FIGHT BANDITRY

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has lauded Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment and continued support to the military operations in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the minister visited the Zamfara Government House and the Joint Taskforce Northwest Operation Fansar Yamma headquarters in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the visit aims to enhance collaboration between the state and the Ministry of Defence.

The statement added that the minister discussed issues of concern as a follow-up to governors Lawal and Radda’s visit to the Defence Ministry earlier this week.

In his remark, Governor Lawal restated his government’s willingness to cooperate with all security agencies to ensure a peaceful Zamfara.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Minister of Defense, who is here today to discuss the security situation in Zamfara.

“Some few days ago, the governor of Katsina state and I were in the minister’s office at the Defence Ministry, where we discussed pressing issues.

“You can see, after two days, the Minister is here with us. This is commendable and a show of commitment from the minister’s side.

“Zamfara is facing many security challenges, but as a responsible government, we are all out to seek assistance, synergy, and cooperation. We are committed to providing all assistance to the troops.

“We are taking this fight to the bandits because we won’t continue to remain defensive. What I have seen so far suggests that the banditry issue will become history, God willing.

“I have made commitments to the Minister. In addition, I have procured ten bulletproof buffalo gun trucks for the military. Other logistics are also in place and will be made available to the security forces to aid them in fighting banditry.

“If we could address the banditry challenges in Zamfara, 90% of the problem would be solved.

“I appeal to the troops, especially the military, that we need them. I am confident they have what it takes to finish this fight.

“I am committed, and I am with you. I thank you all, especially the Honourable Minister who creates time to be with us.”

Earlier, The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, said the successes of the ongoing operation against bandits are linked to the continued support of Governor Lawal’s administration.

“We have started to see improvements, thanks to the support of His Excellency, the Governor of Zamfara State.

“He provided accommodation for the command, logistics, long-distance surveillance cameras, vehicles, and fuel. He even supplied the troops with gun trucks. Your Excellency, we thank you.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 24, 2024

INSECURITY: GOVERNORS LAWAL, RADDA MEET DEFENCE MINISTER, NSA IN ABUJA

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: GOVERNORS LAWAL, RADDA MEET DEFENCE MINISTER, NSA IN ABUJA

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda held a closed-door meeting with Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

The two strategic meetings took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Defence and the National Security Adviser’s office.

A statement issued by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the meeting extensively discussed a recommendation from the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) security committee.

The statement added that the group organized a two-day roundtable discussion in Abuja on January 23, 2024, chaired by former Head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar.

“Yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State met with defence minister Badaru Abubakar at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.

“The governors deliberated on crucial issues concerning insecurity and explored ways to enhance collaboration between the two states and the Ministry of Defence.

“After the meeting at the Ministry of Defence, both governors and the defence minister went to the office of the National Security Adviser for another meeting on insecurity.

“The meeting at the National Security Adviser’s office adopted the recommendations of the recommendations from the Security Summit hosted by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG).

“In January this year, the Coalition of Northern Groups organized a two-day roundtable discussion chaired by former head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar, with all the major stakeholders from the northern part of Nigeria in attendance.

“The adoption of the security committee’s recommendations marks a significant milestone in addressing the complex insecurity issues in Northern Nigeria.

“These are part of the strategies and collaborations that the Katsina and Zamfara state governors are using to combat the issue of banditry in their respective states.”

At the meeting, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) was represented by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Nastura Ashiru Shariff; the Chairman of the CNG Security Committee, Alhaji Bashir Yusuf; Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Katsina; General Sarkin Yaki Bello, Ambassador Buhari Bala and General Sa’ad Abubakar.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 23, 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL PARDONS 31 INMATES, PROVIDES THEM WITH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL PARDONS 31 INMATES, PROVIDES THEM WITH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, released 31 inmates who are serving their term at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital.

On Friday, the governor visited the Gusau Medium Custodial Centre, where he signed to pardon the inmates in accordance with Nigeria’s constitution.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the decision was made after a careful investigation of the inmates’ records.

The statement added that the Constitution allows governors to reduce sentences and pardon inmates.

During his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said inmates convicted of various crimes were pardoned to encourage their transformation into law-abiding citizens.

“Today, I am exercising the power granted by Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to show mercy to inmates, which aims to alleviate imprisonment’s hardships and psychological distress.

“The decision was made after thoroughly examining the prisoners’ records, which confirmed their genuine remorse.

“Furthermore, I have approved a gift of N50,000 to each pardoned inmate to support their reintegration into society.

“This is an effort by my administration to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers, especially at this time when we are making arrests of suspected bandits and informants.”

After inspecting the facility, Governor Lawal promised to provide all necessary assistance for the Gusau Correctional Center.

Earlier, Dr. Umar Galadima, the Comptroller of Corrections, Zamfara Command, praised Governor Lawal for his visit and decision to grant mercy to inmates.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 18, 2024

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES SIX COMMITTEES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DEV’T POLICIES, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO REBUILD ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES SIX COMMITTEES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DEV’T POLICIES, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO REBUILD ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing principles of good governance in the operations of public offices in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor inaugurated six committees to implement Zamfara’s development policies and programs at the old council chamber of the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the committees inaugurated are the Human Capital Development Council, the Committee to Combat Drug Abuse, the Land Use and Allocation Committee, and the Development Plan Committee.

The statement added that other committees inaugurated are the Committee for Nigeria’s Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity in Governance and the Committee for the World Bank’s Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities.

At the inauguration, Governor Lawal reiterated that members were carefully selected from various sectors constituting the committees, including the State Executive Council, Permanent Secretaries, technocrats, academics, seasoned administrators, and individuals.

“The Human Capital Development Council will be chaired by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Mani Mallam Mummini Masamar Mudi, with the Honourable Senior Special Assistant on Human Capital Development as the Secretary.

“The mandate of this committee is to ensure a proper framework for community engagement that enhances the sustainability of government projects and programs on human development. It will also coordinate the mandates of human capital development-related MDAs and eliminate bottlenecks in service delivery.

“Through this committee, the government will ensure the optimal utilization of the knowledge and skills acquired by our people, particularly the youth and women, to empower them to realize their full potential as productive members of society.

“The second committee is tasked with addressing the pressing problem of drug abuse in the state. This committee will conduct a comprehensive assessment of drug abuse in our communities, examining the types of drugs being abused, the demographics of users, and the rate of prevalence.

“Additionally, it will investigate the root causes of drug abuse and recommend prevention and intervention strategies. The First Lady, Her Excellency Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, will chair this committee, and the Secretary will be the Director of Pharmacy, Ministry of Health.

“The following committee is finalizing the Zamfara State Ten-Year Development Plan, 2024–2033. Its mandate is to ensure that the content of the draft development plan, presented two months ago, is well-structured and aligns with the national standards and our transformation agenda.

“The committee will also provide insights into governance and institutional processes targeted by reforms. It should also work closely with UNICEF’s Sokoto Field Office for the plan’s actualization, approval, and launch. Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, the Honourable Education, Science, and Technology Commissioner, will chair this committee.

“The State Land Use and Allocation Committee, a strategic body, will provide land administration and management policy direction. It will process applications for land allocation, recommend suitable candidates to the Governor, and offer advice on the revocation of land rights in cases of overriding public interest.

“Additionally, the committee will determine compensation for land use. The committee is chaired by Alhaji Ali Bako, a veteran land surveyor and retired Permanent Secretary.

“The Steering Committee for the World Bank Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities, or Solid Project, will be led by Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, Honourable Commissioner of Budget and Planning. This committee is responsible for domesticating the World Bank’s Durable Solutions for IDPs and Host Communities Project, which the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning coordinates.

“The project aims to improve access to essential services and economic opportunities for IDPs and host communities in displacement-affected local government areas of Northern Nigeria, including Zamfara State.

“The final committee being inaugurated is the Steering Committee for Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity in Governance.

“This is part of a national program Zamfara State intends to enter. This program comprises three interdependent operations designed to address various challenges and support resource allocation and expenditure improvements for basic education and primary healthcare services. The committee will focus on increasing the availability and effectiveness of financing for primary education and healthcare, improving transparency and accountability, and enhancing recruitment and performance management for teachers and healthcare workers.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 17, 2024

GOV. LAWAL DONATES BUS TO ASSOCIATION OF ZAMFARA RETIRED PERMANENT SECRETARIES

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL DONATES BUS TO ASSOCIATION OF ZAMFARA RETIRED PERMANENT SECRETARIES

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has donated an 18-seater bus to the association of the Zamfara Retired Permanent Secretaries.

The governor presented the bus to the association’s leadership on Wednesday at the government house in Gusau.

At last year’s annual conference, Governor Lawal promised to provide a bus for the association to facilitate easier transportation during its activities.

“Alhamdulillah, I am fulfilling this promise to you today. I pray you make the most of the vehicle in your daily activities.

“My administration will continue to provide you with all necessary support. You served Zamfara State diligently, and now it’s time for the government to support your association.”

Receiving the bus on behalf of the association, former Zamfara State Head of Service, Alhaji Bello Karakkai, expressed gratitude to the governor for consistently keeping his promises.

“We are proud of this gesture and will make sure to publicize that you did something significant for our association.

“This is the first time a governor has listened to us since the creation of the state. We are exceedingly happy. May God bless you.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 16, 2024