ZITDA – Zamfara State Government

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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Jul 9 2026

STATE POLICE WILL GIVE GOVERNORS GENUINE AUTHORITY AS CHIEF SECURITY OFFICERS TO COMBAT INSECURITY -GOVERNOR LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

STATE POLICE WILL GIVE GOVERNORS GENUINE AUTHORITY AS CHIEF SECURITY OFFICERS TO COMBAT INSECURITY -GOVERNOR LAWAL

Governor Dauda Lawal said state police will go a long way toward tackling insecurity in the country by giving governors real authority as chief security officers of their states.

He made these remarks as a panellist at the Arise News Town Hall Summit: Building a National Consensus for State Police & National Security, held today at the Thisday Dome in Abuja.

Governor Lawal observed that insecurity has persisted in the states because the command and control structure has not been under the chief executives of the states.

He said that when state governments are responsible for the security of lives and property within their domains, the police would be better equipped and have more personnel to tackle crime.

“We’re being called chief security officers of our respective states; however, the command and control structure is not under the governors,” he said.

“I am happy with the recent development of state police because it allows us to keep to our responsibilities and for our people also to hold us accountable as far as the security situation is concerned in our respective states,” the governor said.

The governor further said that, “I strongly believe that, by the time we have state police, it will go a long way in solving a lot of the challenges, and we can then bear our names as proper chief security officers of our respective states.”

While dismissing claims of abuse by state executives, the governor noted that almost all states of the federation have one or more security apparatuses in place, and none of these security outfits has been used to oppress opposition in the states.

He, however, urged the lawmakers to put measures in place to prevent abuse.

“I support state police. I recognise people’s fears of possible abuse, but with the right processes in place, those fears will be allayed,” he said.

The summit aimed to build consensus on state police and broader national security reforms, as concerns over insecurity continue to dominate public discourse across Nigeria.

It brought together national security leaders, governors, lawmakers, civil society organisations, policy experts, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to secure communities and protect lives across the country.

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

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Jul 3 2026

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal attended the inaugural State House Press Corps Presidential Dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

At the event, Governor Lawal had the honour of decorating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Grand Patron of the State House Press Corps.

The presidential dinner aimed to strengthen engagement between journalists and senior government officials, recognise excellence in presidential reporting, and provide an informal setting for interaction between media and top government figures.

During his remarks, President Tinubu urged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy, and responsibility in reporting, describing the press as a critical partner in nation-building and democratic governance.

The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The State House Press Corps comprises journalists accredited to cover the President and activities within the Presidential Villa.

The maiden dinner was attended by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Others in attendance are the Ministers of Finance, Education, Health, Agriculture, and Information, as well as the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 03, 2026

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

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Jul 1 2026

TRANSPORTATION: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES 50 BUSES TO ZAMFARA NURTW

Governor Dauda Lawal has provided 50 new buses to the Zamfara State Chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

The buses were officially handed over to recipients on Wednesday at the Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Zamfara State Government provided the 50 buses to the NURTW as a loan under the Zamfara State Loan Scheme.

The statement added that part of the critical assets distributed includes five fire trucks procured to support effective firefighting.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated that the loan scheme is part of his administration’s efforts to improve the public transportation system, promote economic empowerment, and enhance the safety and efficiency of transportation for our people.

He said, “The buses would be distributed to the NURTW on loan, under the Zamfara State Loan Scheme. The Union has agreed to participate in the identification, supervision, and repayment of its members’ vehicles.

“Under this scheme, the vehicles were procured at the cost of N27,390,000.00 only. However, the Government will provide a 20% subsidy on the total cost of each vehicle.

“This represents the sum of N5,478,000.00 per vehicle. Therefore, each beneficiary will pay N21,912,000.00 per vehicle within 44 months of vehicle allocation.

“We are also commissioning 5 units of fire trucks procured for an effective firefighting mechanism.

“We are aware that fire outbreaks can destroy homes, shops, and livelihoods in seconds. These new fire trucks, equipped with modern standards, will strengthen the state fire service’s capacity to respond faster across all nooks and crannies of the State.

“I, therefore, charge the Fire Service to complement these efforts by ensuring adequate training of its personnel, conducting public fire-safety sensitisations, and always keeping the equipment in serviceable condition.”

The Governor further emphasised that the assets distributed belong to the people of Zamfara State.

“I direct all MDAs and beneficiaries to submit quarterly maintenance and utilisation reports to their respective reporting Offices. I want to emphasise that vandalism, misuse, or diversion will not be tolerated.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 01, 2026

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