ZITDA – Zamfara State Government

Aug 22 2026

2027: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMENDS SEN. YARI’S APPOINTMENT AS PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CAMPAIGN DG

PRESS STATEMENT

2027: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMENDS SEN. YARI’S APPOINTMENT AS PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CAMPAIGN DG

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal commended the appointment of Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar as the Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima 2027 Campaign Council.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Saturday announced its Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election, naming former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Yari, as Director-General.

Governor Lawal described Senator Yari’s appointment as Director-General of the APC presidential campaign as evidence of his exceptional leadership in organisational management.

The governor said Yari’s appointment is not only a good omen but also the right decision that will lead to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

He said, “On behalf of the people of Zamfara State, we extend sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing one of our own, former Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, as Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima 2027 Campaign Council. This appointment is a moment of pride for all of us.

“This decision will undoubtedly uplift the spirits and morale of all members of the APC, reinforcing their commitment to the party’s vision and objectives.”

The governor noted that, with Senator Yari leading the Presidential campaign, the party is well positioned to convince voters and advance President Tinubu’s agenda.

Governor Lawal also congratulated former Zamfara Governors Ahmed Sani Yarima, Mahmuda Aliyu Shinkafi, and Bello Matawalle for their appointments to vital roles in the Presidential campaign council.

“Their experiences and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the presidential campaign, further strengthening the party’s efforts as we all work towards ensuring President Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.”

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

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Aug 19 2026

ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

Governor Dauda Lawal has emphasised that bandits who refuse peace and threaten innocent people must face the full consequences of the law.

The Zamfara State Government hosted a three-day Northwest Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Police on Wednesday at the Government House, Gusau.

The Security Summit, themed ‘Appraising the Security Challenges in the Northwest Region’, was honoured by the presence of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

The summit brought together the leadership of the Nigeria Police, representatives of the Northwest States, heads of security and intelligence agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organisations.

While declaring the summit open, Governor Lawal commended the Inspector-General of Police and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for convening the summit and for choosing Zamfara State as the host.

He said, “This is significant because Zamfara remains at the frontline of the security challenges confronting the Northwest. It provides an appropriate setting for an honest assessment of our challenges and, more importantly, the development of practical solutions.

“The Northwest’s security crisis exceeds isolated crimes. Organised networks conduct banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling across borders, threatening livelihoods, food security, education, investment, and the social fabric. The summit also highlights urban threats such as thuggery, substance abuse, and radical infiltration.

“This reality demands moving beyond fragmented responses because criminal networks ignore state boundaries. Our security must operate cohesively. Intelligence in Zamfara can prevent attacks elsewhere, and operations nearby can disrupt threats in Zamfara.

“Accordingly, the Northwest needs stronger mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, inter-state surveillance, community policing, and sustained disruption of the financial, logistical and supply networks that sustain organised crime.”

The governor added that the summit represents some of the finest operational, intelligence and strategic experience within the Nigeria Police Force and the security ecosystem.

“We must, therefore, challenge ourselves to leave Gusau not merely with another diagnosis of insecurity, but with actionable options.

“I urge this summit to consider practical measures to cut off criminal networks’ supply chains and limit their movement. Criminal enterprises rely on logistics including routes, markets, intermediaries, financiers, and networks.

“We must confront operational questions: How do we disrupt supply chains? How do we limit criminals’ mobility across forests, communities, and borders? How do we strengthen control over vulnerable corridors without harming legitimate commerce? And how do we identify and dismantle networks of informants and facilitators enabling crime?”

Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said that the security of the Northwest is a collective responsibility because the region is of enormous importance to Nigeria.

“We are combining states to tackle the issue of insecurity. We have come together, we police together, we share intelligence together. We have made up our minds to take the fight to these criminals. We have made up our minds to do this; that is why we summoned this summit.”

“As Inspector-General of Police, I assure you that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to deploy its capabilities, personnel and partnerships towards securing the region and supporting the efforts of State Governments and other security agencies. But we also recognise that policing is most effective when it is supported by the people.”

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

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Aug 18 2026

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has been honoured with the Blueprint Newspapers’ 2026 Efficient Public Resource Management and Transparency Award.

The governor on Tuesday received the award at the 8th edition of Blueprint Newspapers’ Annual Public Lecture, Impact Series and Awards, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

This year’s theme of the event was “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections.”

Delivering remarks at the event, Governor Lawal expressed his appreciation to the management of Blueprint Newspaper and vowed to do more in his administration’s efforts to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

He said, “This award is a testament that the media and Nigerians outside Zamfara are witnessing the efforts my government is putting in our quest to make Zamfara great.

“In the three years of my government, we have recorded so many successes in the areas of security, education, health, economy, human capital, infrastructure, among others. And all these were achieved because we run a transparent government.”

The newspaper, among the reasons for the award, said Governor Lawal was recognised for his prudent management of public resources, fiscal accountability and efforts to promote transparent governance in Zamfara State.

The award, it said, emphasises responsible stewardship of public resources and the connection between fiscal discipline and inclusive development.

The Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar, said Governor Lawal “represents a blend of professional accomplishment and public service.”

He said the governor’s experience in diplomacy, banking and politics has equipped him with a broad understanding of governance, financial management and institutional leadership.

“As Governor of Zamfara State, he continues to pursue policies aimed at restoring stability, improving infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said.

He added that “his government has focused on improving financial discipline, strengthening public sector accountability and ensuring that public resources are directed toward projects capable of producing measurable benefits for the people of Zamfara State.”

“He has consistently emphasised responsible budgeting, efficient service delivery and prudent management of state finances as essential foundations for long-term development,” the newspaper said in the governor’s citation.

His administration, it said, has supported initiatives aimed at improving security operations, protecting rural communities and creating conditions that encourage displaced residents to return to their homes and resume productive activities.

Governor Lawal has placed considerable emphasis on rebuilding public infrastructure across Zamfara State, the newspaper said.

His government, it said, has undertaken road rehabilitation and construction projects, improved public buildings and invested in infrastructure designed to stimulate commerce, improve transportation and enhance access to essential public services.

These projects are intended to reconnect communities, facilitate economic activities and support balanced development across urban and rural areas, the citation stated.

It added that Governor Lawal’s administration also recognises education as a critical tool for reducing poverty and creating opportunities for future generations. He also pursued reforms to strengthen healthcare delivery throughout the state.

The event brought together policymakers, security chiefs, political leaders, diplomats, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical measures to ensure peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 18, 2026

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Aug 9 2026

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

PRESS STATEMENT

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, other state governors, and the President’s Chief of Staff will represent Nigeria at the Canada–Africa Summit on digital rails and inclusive growth.

The Maiden Investment Summit is set to take place in Toronto from August 10 to 15, 2026.

The Presidency’s invitation to Governor Lawal highlighted that his role as a key participant would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic standing at the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Economic Conference (NDIEC).

The Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) is a leading global platform where governments, investors, multinational companies, development finance institutions, foundations, and partners form strategic partnerships and explore investment opportunities.

The summit will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goals through the National Energy Transition Plan to make Nigeria a key partner in Africa–Canada economic cooperation.

The Zamfara State Government sees NIDEC as more than just a diplomatic event; it is a strategic economic mission to attract investment, technology transfer, development funding, and technical partnerships to drive the State’s economic transformation.

Governor Lawal’s involvement in the Canada-Africa Investment Summit will help position Zamfara State as Nigeria’s emerging hub for agribusiness, strategic minerals development, human capital growth, and digital innovation.

Nigeria’s delegation also includes the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the governors Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Sen. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, among others.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 09, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

PRESS STATEMENT

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has been honoured with the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award in Ghana, recognising his administration’s notable achievements over the past three years.

The 7th ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award ceremony was held on Friday at the British Council in Accra, Ghana.

This year’s theme for the lecture was “Leadership, Peace, and Regional Integration: Advancing Africa’s Development in a Changing Global Order.”

The award’s board and governing council emphasised, among other reasons for the honour, Governor Dauda Lawal’s significant progress in public sector leadership and economic reforms in Zamfara State.

The BOT chairman of the ZIK Pan-African Award, His Royal Highness Professor Echefuna R.G Onyeabadi, stated that the award aims to recognise individuals making meaningful contributions in service to the people.

In his remarks after receiving the award, Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his gratitude and committed to doing more to help rescue and rebuild Zamfara State.

He said: “This award is dedicated to all the people of Zamfara State. My administration has been working tirelessly to ensure the state can compete with any other in Nigeria. That was our promise, and we have surpassed expectations in just three years.

“My administration has transformed Zamfara through urban renewal initiatives; we constructed a modern, state-of-the-art airport, something that had not existed for over 30 years since the state’s founding.

“We have made great strides in security, civil service reform, education, health, and other sectors.

“I appreciate the organisers of this annual lecture and award. It means a lot to me and will motivate me to do even more for my people. Zamfara is on the rise.”

Among other dignitaries awarded at the event is the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, for his contributions to public service and sustainable development.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on his birthday.

The National Chairman and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction turned 58th on August 08, 2026.

The Zamfara Governor described the chairman as a valuable asset to the progressive family and Nigeria’s political development.

He said, “On his birthday, I felicitate with our Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, a refined academic and committed party leader who prioritises the development of the All Progressives Congress.

“The exemplary leadership and vision displayed by Professor Nentawe have played a vital role in promoting major initiatives and in encouraging cooperation among the members of our great party.

“As you turn 58 today, I wish you many more years of complete mental, physical, and social well-being so Nigeria continues to benefit from your vast knowledge and experience.”

Governor Lawal noted that Professor Nentawe’s handling of the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections shows his knowledge, discipline, sincerity, and commitment to doing what is right.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Aug 6 2026

Bandit Attack: Governor Lawal Visits Bungudu LGA, Reaffirms Commitment to Combating Crime

PRESS STATEMENT

Bandit Attack: Governor Lawal Visits Bungudu LGA, Reaffirms Commitment to Combating Crime

Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s policy of refusing to negotiate with or yield to criminals in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor visited Bungudu Local Government Area to offer condolences to affected families, the emirate, and the community following the recent bandit attack.

The visit began at the palace of the Emir of Bungudu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, where Governor Lawal outlined the state government’s ongoing efforts to maintain security and peace in Zamfara.

He said, “I am here to express my sympathy and offer condolences to the families, the Emir, and the people of Bungudu following last week’s bandit attacks.

“This is a test from Almighty Allah, and we will overcome it. The state government is dedicating resources and efforts to end the threat of banditry.

“I encourage everyone to remain patient, as this sensitive issue requires both perseverance and steadfast prayers.

“I pray that God grants the victims’ families the strength to endure this loss. May Allah forgive those who lost their lives.

“We will continue to provide all necessary assistance to those injured and will do everything possible to secure the safe return of all kidnapped victims.”

In response, the Emir of Bungudu thanked God for providing Zamfara State with a Governor who cares and is taking all possible measures to end insecurity.

“As a member of the state’s security council, I am aware of the governor’s efforts. I am confident that we will overcome the challenge of banditry.

“We appreciate your condolence visit. It means a lot to the people of Bungudu LGA.”

While in Bungudu LGA, Governor Lawal visited the families of the late Alhaji Bello Umar Bungudu and other victims’ families to offer his condolences.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 06, 2026

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Jul 22 2026

GOV. LAWAL SIGNS HISTORIC EDUCATION REFORM ORDERS, DISTRIBUTES NATIONAL CURRICULUM TO ZAMFARA SCHOOLS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL SIGNS HISTORIC EDUCATION REFORM ORDERS, DISTRIBUTES NATIONAL CURRICULUM TO ZAMFARA SCHOOLS

Governor Dauda Lawal has signed Executive Orders to establish an integrated governance framework for education financing, school protection, classification, quality assurance, health, and security.

The governor on Tuesday also launched the distribution of national curricula to public schools during a meeting with education stakeholders at the Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the reforms address school governance and operations, school feeding and student welfare, transportation safety, safe schools’ implementation, and regulation of graduation ceremonies.

He added that further reforms include unified examinations, school health services, merit-based school leadership appointments, inclusive education, and the promotion of STEM, TVET, and digital education.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal said education is far more than a social service.

He said, “It is the most powerful instrument for reducing poverty, promoting peace, strengthening security, stimulating economic growth, and preparing future generations to compete in an increasingly knowledge-driven world.

“Today, we are turning that commitment into concrete institutional reforms by signing and presenting these Executive Orders.

“These Executive Orders are not isolated directives. Together, they constitute a comprehensive governance framework designed to strengthen school administration, improve accountability, protect public educational assets, enhance financing, promote safety, raise educational standards, improve learning outcomes, and prepare our children for the demands of the twenty-first century.”

Governor Lawal emphasised that, for many years, education reforms focused primarily on physical infrastructure. While classrooms, laboratories, and learning facilities are important, experience shows that buildings alone do not guarantee quality education.

Earlier, Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, said that successful education systems depend on collaboration among governments, teachers, parents, communities, traditional institutions, development partners, and the private sector.

“These reforms will not end with policy documents. They will be reflected in safer schools, stronger governance, healthier learners, improved teaching, better educational outcomes and greater public confidence in our education system.”

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

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Jul 12 2026

GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS $200 MILLION ZAMFARA LITHIUM MINING PLANT, SAYS DEV’T DEPENDS ON RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS $200 MILLION ZAMFARA LITHIUM MINING PLANT, SAYS DEV’T DEPENDS ON RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated that development comes when resources are managed efficiently and transparently, and the government provides an enabling environment for investors to operate responsibly.

The governor on Saturday unveiled the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant in Boko Village, Zurmi Local Government Area.

The 200-million-dollar Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant is a joint investment by ZAM Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd, and other partners.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal described the unveiling as a new beginning to unlock Zamfara State’s potential through responsible investment, industrial growth, job creation, and the sustainable use of mineral resources, with the people at the centre.

He said, “For many years, our State has been known within and outside this country as a haven of vast mineral deposits. Our land is blessed with abundant resources; the measure of this blessing is how it is responsibly harnessed to improve the lives of our people.

“From the inception of this administration, we made a firm commitment to change the narrative of the solid minerals sector in Zamfara State from informality to organisation, from exploitation to value creation, and from lost opportunities to shared prosperity.

“This is why our administration has continued to support reforms promoting lawful mining activities, attracting credible investors, and strengthening partnerships with the Federal Government to ensure mining activities contribute meaningfully to economic growth and development.

“The global economy is changing rapidly. Lithium and other critical minerals are central to the future of renewable energy, electric vehicles, modern technology, and industrial transformation. Zamfara State cannot afford to remain only a source of raw minerals; we must become active participants in the entire value chain.

“The establishment of this processing plant is consistent with our vision to move beyond extraction towards local processing, value addition, skills development, and industrial growth.

“Let me assure all genuine investors that Zamfara State Government will continue to provide the enabling environment to succeed. We will strengthen security collaboration, improve infrastructure, and develop policies that promote sustainable development.

“I hereby state unequivocally that our administration is committed to mining activities that respect the law, protect our environment, and provide direct benefits to our communities.”

The governor further reiterated that the people of Boko Village and surrounding communities must see this investment as a partnership for development.

“The people’s well-being must be enhanced. I therefore mandate that the operators prioritise local employment, skills transfer, community development, environmental protection, and meaningful corporate social responsibility.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Zamfara State, I congratulate all stakeholders who made this event possible.

“It is now my honour and privilege to officially unveil the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 12, 2026

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Jul 10 2026

GOVERNOR LAWAL DISTRIBUTES 72,000 FREE BAGS OF FERTILISER, CHEMICALS, AND EQUIPMENT TO ZAMFARA FARMERS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL DISTRIBUTES 72,000 FREE BAGS OF FERTILISER, CHEMICALS, AND EQUIPMENT TO ZAMFARA FARMERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed more than 120 trucks of fertilisers and essential farm inputs to Zamfara farmers.

The Zamfara 2026 wet-season fertiliser programme was launched on Friday at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, the state capital.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Zamfara State Government distributed 72,000 bags of fertiliser, 200,000 litres of herbicides, and 100 crop residue crushers.

Additional agricultural assets include 100 grass choppers, 100 feed milling machines, improved pasture seeds, 20 motorcycles, and 20 mobile phones designated for agricultural extension agents.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal said Zamfara State occupies a strategic position as one of Nigeria’s agricultural strongholds.

He said, “Today’s event marks another significant milestone in our commitment to revitalising agriculture, strengthening food security, creating sustainable livelihoods, supporting our farmers, and repositioning Zamfara State as a major contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural economy.

“Zamfara State has vast, fertile land and hardworking people whose history, culture, and economy are rooted in agriculture. Farming is the main livelihood and a key to inclusive growth and sustainable development, helping to fight poverty, banditry, and crime.

“Our communities have long been known for agriculture, livestock, and trade that sustain livelihoods and regional food supply. Agriculture is not just an economic activity; it’s part of our identity, heritage, resilience, and the foundation for prosperity that future generations will continue to build upon.

“Our goal is to restore and expand Zamfara’s farming legacy by shifting from subsistence to productive, tech-driven, market-oriented agriculture.

“We aim to unlock farmers’ potential through improved inputs, mechanisation, irrigation, extension services, climate-smart methods, and market linkages. This will make Zamfara a leading Nigerian agricultural hub.

“As peace returns, more communities are reopening, more farmlands are under cultivation, and more families are rebuilding their livelihoods. Our responsibility as a government is to sustain this progress by providing the support, infrastructure, and environment our farmers need to succeed.”

The governor emphasised that the state government’s commitment is shown not only by words but through deliberate action.

“We have strengthened collaboration with the Federal Government, development partners, and international organisations while fulfilling our obligations, including payment of counterpart funds, to ensure full benefits from critical agricultural interventions.

“Through programmes such as FADAMA III, NG-CARES, SPIN, ZACADEP, SAPZ, IFAD-supported initiatives, and other strategic partnerships, thousands of our farmers have benefited from improved seeds, fertilisers, agrochemicals, irrigation facilities, farming equipment, and modern agricultural knowledge.

“These interventions improve productivity, expand cultivation, and boost household incomes, laying a foundation for a modern, competitive, climate-resilient sector. We promote mechanisation, private investment, and innovation to make agriculture more productive and attractive, especially for youth. This is evident in the Zamfara State Agriculture hub in Kwatarkwashi, Bungudu LGA.”

The distribution of the fertilisers and agricultural assets will cover all 147 political wards across Zamfara State’s 14 Local Government Areas. Each ward will receive 340 bags of fertiliser, while each Local Government Area will receive 8,000 litres of herbicides.

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

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