March 2026 – Zamfara State Government

Mar 24 2026

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR PARTICIPATES IN COVENTRY UNIVERSITY’S STRATEGIC GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR PARTICIPATES IN COVENTRY UNIVERSITY’S STRATEGIC GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP

Governor Dauda Lawal will attend a high-level workshop on strategic governance and resilience as part of his administration’s broader initiatives to improve Zamfara.

The workshop organised by the Centre for Resilient Business and Society is scheduled for March 30 and 31, 2026, at Coventry University in the United Kingdom.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the high-level workshop is supported under the United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) Institutional Support framework.

He added that the workshop also reflects a shared commitment to advancing research-driven solutions for governance, resilience, and societal development in institutions in Zamfara State.

The statement read in parts, “Governor Lawal is on Sunday set to travel to the United Kingdom for a two-day strategic governance workshop hosted by Coventry University.

“The workshop brings together global scholars, policymakers, and governance experts to explore methods for building resilient institutions and addressing societal challenges through research and data-driven solutions.

“Key sessions during the two-day workshop include Resilient Leadership in Dynamic and Resource-Limited Settings, Financial Resilience, Public Sector Innovation, Managing Change, and Ethical Data Use in Governance.

“Governor Lawal is joined by a high-ranking delegation that includes the Secretary to the State Government, key commissioners, special advisers, and the Executive Secretary of the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA).

“As part of the engagement, the governor and his team will hold an interactive session with postgraduate research (PGR) students on the theme: ‘The Role of Research in Policymaking: Driving Strategic and Resilient Governance – Lessons from the Six-Point Rescue Agenda.”

“The session will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on how research can move beyond theory to shape policy decisions and deliver measurable impact, while drawing practical lessons from the implementation of Zamfara State’s Six-Point Rescue Agenda.

“Zamfara State’s participation highlights the government’s commitment to integrating research and data into governance. This approach supports the Six-Point Rescue Agenda, focusing on security, peacebuilding, agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 29, 2026

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Mar 24 2026

ZAMFARA STANDSTILL AS VP SHETTIMA, 10 GOVERNORS WELCOME GOVERNOR LAWAL TO APC

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA STANDSTILL AS VP SHETTIMA, 10 GOVERNORS WELCOME GOVERNOR LAWAL TO APC

The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, led 10 governors, including the party chairman, to formally welcome Governor Dauda Lawal to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Vice President welcomed the governor, assembly members, cabinet members, and thousands of supporters to the APC during a grand reception on Tuesday at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Vice President arrived at the newly constructed Gusau International Airport.

The statement added that the governors who graced the occasion include those of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Dikko Radda (Katsina), Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Hope Odidika Uzodinma (Imo).

Also in attendance were the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas, the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, APC Governors Forum Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, as well as ministers, party chieftains, and other dignitaries.

In his speech, the Vice President said the end of insecurity in Nigeria was in sight, as President Tinubu was working hard to ensure that peace is sustained across the country.

He prayed for greater unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence under the Tinubu administration, assuring that the President is doing all he can to secure lives and property across the nation.

“We pray for more unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because as our leader is working very hard to ensure the safety of lives and property across Nigeria,” he said.

He said the security challenges in Zamfara State and other troubled states would be addressed, adding that Governor Lawal’s entry into the APC would help achieve that.

The VP said opposition parties like the ADC, PDP, and others will not thrive in Zamfara State because all major politicians in the state are knitted together.

He expressed full support for Governor Lawal, applauding the people of the state for their support for their governor and the APC.

Also, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Uzodimma, said governors elected on the APC platform were happy to welcome Governor Lawal into their fold.

“It is a win-win situation for Zamfara. APC is a moving train, and we are happy that the State has joined that train. All Governors of APC will support Governor Lawal to do more for this State,” he said.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal assured party leaders and supporters of his commitment to ensuring fairness and justice for everyone. He also pledged to continue working diligently for the people of Zamfara State.

Former governors of Zamfara State, including Abdulaziz Yari, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and Mahmuda Shinkafi, attended the event. They offered their full support and agreed to work with Governor Lawal.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 24, 2026

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Mar 23 2026

ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL DIRECTS ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS SEEKING POLITICAL OFFICES TO RESIGN

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL DIRECTS ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS SEEKING POLITICAL OFFICES TO RESIGN

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has directed all council members who wish to run for political office in the 2027 general elections to resign.

The governor issued the directive on Monday during the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the directive aligns with the Electoral Act, signed into law by the President, and INEC’s release of the 2027 election timetable.

The statement read in parts, “Today, Governor Dauda Lawal presided over the 64th Executive Council Meeting, where critical issues were deliberated for the development of Zamfara State.

“In his opening remarks, the governor directed that all council members vying for political offices should resign on or before the 31st of March 2026.

“The governor instructed the Secretary of the State Government to issue a circular to all political appointees aspiring for elective offices, requiring them to resign from their appointments before the due date.

“The Head of Service is directed to issue the same to all Civil Servants who nurse the aspiration to contest an election.”

Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s commitment to serving the people of Zamfara State.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 23, 2026

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Mar 22 2026

GOV. LAWAL EXCITED AS ZAMFARA CONDUCTS HISTORIC FLIGHT TEST AT GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal expressed excitement for the historic test run of the maiden flight at Gusau International Airport.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the test flight landed at the Gusau International Airport at exactly 4:30pm on Sunday.

He added that the aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 605, was operated by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The statement read in parts, “Today will remain a historic day in the history of Zamfara State as Governor Lawal witnessed the landing of the maiden flight at the Gusau International Airport.

“The aircraft with registration 5N-FGZ performed a one-off test to assess the airport’s capability for VIP movements scheduled next week.

“The test flight is in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 12.1.4.1(c).

“Before the test flight, the state government requested permission from the NCAA, and the Authority granted a one-off ‘No Technical Objection’ (NTO) for the Aircraft to land in Gusau.

“The flight operation was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), which was strictly from sunrise to sunset.

“The historic test flight has significantly boosted Governor Lawal’s administration’s reputation, especially since Zamfara has lacked an airport since its creation over 30 years ago.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 22, 2026

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Mar 19 2026

EID-EL FITR: GOV. LAWAL URGES MUSLIMS TO INTENSIFY PRAYERS FOR PEACE

PRESS STATEMENT

EID-EL FITR: GOV. LAWAL URGES MUSLIMS TO INTENSIFY PRAYERS FOR PEACE

Governor Dauda Lawal urged Muslim faithful to increase their prayers for peace in Zamfara State and across the country.

The governor appealed for prayers while congratulating the Muslim faithful on completing 30 days of fasting during Ramadan.

Governor Lawal reiterated that Eid El-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast, pray, and reflect spiritually.

“I congratulate the Muslim faithful in Zamfara and Nigeria as we conclude the 30-day Ramadan fast, marking this year’s Eid El-Fitr, the ‘festival of breaking the fast.’

“Eid El-Fitr is a joyous occasion, representing gratitude, unity, and renewal. It is a moment to intensify our prayers for peace in our beloved state and throughout the nation.

“The 30-day fast we just observed aims to instil patience, self-discipline, empathy, spiritual mindfulness, and a deeper connection with God.

“To improve Zamfara and Nigeria for everyone, we must unite. We have a collective responsibility to be our brothers’ keepers and work towards a better future for our state and nation.”

Governor Lawal prayed for a peaceful Eid celebration and hoped for the blessings of good health, peace, and a thriving economy in the years to come.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 19, 2026

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Mar 16 2026

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR IN TINUBU’S DELEGATION FOR HISTORIC UK STATE VISIT

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR IN TINUBU’S DELEGATION FOR HISTORIC UK STATE VISIT

Governor Dauda Lawal has been selected to accompany President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a historic State Visit to the United Kingdom.

The President and the First Lady, along with other members of the presidential entourage, will depart Abuja for the United Kingdom on Tuesday, marking the start of the state visit.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that King Charles will host President Tinubu, his wife and the entourage at Windsor Castle from Wednesday, March 18, to Thursday, March 19.

The statement read in parts, “Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal will join President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s entourage for a historic visit to the United Kingdom on March 18 and 19, 2026.

“The purpose of the state visit, according to the presidency, is to strengthen bilateral relations and explore collaboration opportunities in immigration, trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

“At Windsor Castle, President Tinubu, the First Lady, and their entourage will be invited by Their Majesties to view a special exhibition of Royal Collection items related to Nigeria. In the evening, the Royal Family will host a State Banquet in honour of the Nigerian guests.

“During the visit, President Tinubu will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer, leading to expanded bilateral talks ending with the signing of MoUs on trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.

“The President will serve as the guest of honour at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, which features modern art and culture, and will also participate in a reception with Nigerian and British business leaders as well as diaspora community members.

“The state visit will provide Governor Lawal with networking opportunities, opening significant prospects for investment and economic benefits for Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 16, 2026

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Mar 10 2026

WHY I DEFECTED TO ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS APC –GOV. DAUDA LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

WHY I DEFECTED TO ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS –GOV. DAUDA LAWAL

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has cited the ongoing legal dispute and crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the primary reason for his defection from the party.

Zamfara State Deputy Governor, Mallam Mani Mummuni, announced the formal defection on Monday after a stakeholders’ meeting at the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, described the defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a necessary step for the greater good.

The statement noted that joining the All Progressives Congress was a decision made by the stakeholders in Zamfara State amidst ongoing legal challenges faced by the People’s Democratic Party.

The statement read in parts, “Yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal has officially decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC), a decision reached and endorsed by all relevant stakeholders in Zamfara State.

“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party. He has worked diligently to facilitate reconciliation among the party’s factions, ensuring it remains unified and can field candidates for upcoming elections.

“Efforts to achieve peace, reconciliation, and out-of-court settlements have proven difficult, leading to a series of legal battles that may have future implications, particularly for leaders contesting elections in 2027.

“Governor Lawal was the last man standing in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who stood firm until the very end, which was marked by yesterday’s Appeal Court judgment.

“He was the only governor seeking a second term who chose to stay, hoping that the party leaders would demonstrate decorum and take appropriate action.

“In a recent series of meetings that lasted for weeks, Governor Lawal had informed stakeholders that he acknowledged their request to transition to the APC, but he would decide after the Appeal Court judgment.

“The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday dismissed an appeal by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the October 31 judgment by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the outcome of the national convention which held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16.

“The appellate judgment ended Governor Dauda Lawal’s stay in the People’s Democratic Party, prioritising the interests of Zamfara State. He joined the All Progressives Congress to sustain the Zamfara Rescue and Rebuild mission.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 10, 2026

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Mar 1 2026

IGR: GOV. LAWAL ABOLISHES CASH COLLECTION OF REVENUE IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

IGR: GOV. LAWAL ABOLISHES CASH COLLECTION OF REVENUE IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has ordered the abolition of cash revenue collection in Zamfara State to strengthen digital systems, harmonize databases across MDAs, enable real-time monitoring, and improve inter-agency verification to reduce leakage.

The governor issued the directive last Friday during a town hall awareness and sensitisation event on the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts 2025, organised by the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the spokesperson of the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the town hall meeting themed ‘Diversifying revenue streams under a new tax regime: Exploring non-tax revenue opportunities in Zamfara State’ gathered all relevant stakeholders from across the state.

The statement added that the sensitization was intended to foster clear, structured dialogue and coordinated action as Zamfara prepares to implement the new tax framework.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts, 2025, restructured tax administration nationwide by clarifying boundaries, standardizing procedures, and promoting coordination among the three tiers of government.

He said, “In Zamfara State, the signing of the Repeal and Re-enactment of the Zamfara State Consolidated Revenue Law has strengthened the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service, granting it powers for assessment, collection, and accounting of state revenues. It also harmonizes tax and non-tax revenues and establishes a legal framework for effective tax administration and related matters.

“These reforms offer opportunity and responsibility. The opportunity is to develop a modern, efficient revenue system that supports growth, protects taxpayers, and boosts investor confidence. All government institutions are responsible for fully aligning with the new legal and administrative framework.

“Let me state clearly that revenue generation is a whole-of-government obligation, not a task for a single agency. Every Ministry, Department, and Agency that collects fees, charges, licences, permits, or service-related income must ensure transparency, accuracy, and prompt remittance through approved channels. Leakages, duplication, and informal collections undermine public confidence and will not be tolerated. This administration is committed to closing all loopholes and ensuring that revenues generated serve the intended developmental purpose.

“All revenue-generating MDAs must review their laws, collection tools, and procedures to ensure compliance. Overlaps should be removed, and ambiguities clarified. This will promote stability, effective compliance, and a culture of accountability.

“Beyond institutional alignment, the broader fiscal environment demands strengthened internal resilience. Zamfara State’s 2025 IGR figures show progress in revenue mobilization but highlight the need to improve revenue systems. Our IGR target of ₦38 – ₦42 billion is based on our reform agenda and expanding compliance framework.”

During the opening ceremony, key ministries, MDAs, and individuals were acknowledged and awarded for their leadership in revenue remittance in the state.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 01, 202

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