Digital Governor

Having successfully automated the Zamfara State Executive Council Chamber, Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency – ZITDA had the pleasure of also demonstrating the newly developed Government House Visitors Management System to H.E Dauda Lawal Govzamfara

With the setting up of the mini data centre in the Government House, we are also on course to deploying Phase 1 of the Zamfara Electronic Governance Platform (e-GovConnect).

17 Jan 2025

WeMeanBusiness

EDUCATION: GOV. LAWAL APPROVES EMPLOYMENT OF 2, 000 TEACHERS IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

EDUCATION: GOV. LAWAL APPROVES EMPLOYMENT OF 2, 000 TEACHERS IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the employment of 2,000 teachers across Zamfara State.

The governor made the announcement while presiding over the Executive Council meeting on Monday at the government house council chamber in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the planned recruitment of teachers fulfills promises made during the campaign.

The statement noted that education, being the second priority of Governor Lawal’s administration, has received significant attention and is already yielding desired results.

“Governor Dauda Lawal, in his commitment to revamp education in Zamfara state, has, on November 14, 2023, declared a state of emergency in the educational sector of Zamfara State.

“The emergency response by the Zamara government under Governor Lawal includes the construction and renovation of more than 400 schools across the 14 local government areas of the State.

“Provision of two-seater desks for pupils and students, totaling over 12, 000 across schools in the 14 local government areas and equipping the constructed and renovated over 400 schools with over 700 tables and 1,000 chairs for teachers across the 14 local government areas.”

In his remarks at the council meeting, Governor Lawal said the recruitment of teachers is part of his government’s activities in 2025. “The government will employ 2,000 qualified teachers to help improve and revitalize the education sector.

“The teachers are to be employed in phases to ensure that the right people of quality to address especially critical areas of need in our schools are employed without any wrongdoing.

“The recruitment is part of the AGILE Program and aims to completely reverse the rot in the education sector and improve the quality of teaching and students in our schools throughout the state.

“We are starting with employing 500 teachers in the first quarter of this year. In the first instance, emphasis should be placed on teachers in critical subjects like English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, ICT, and Entrepreneurship studies.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
January 16, 2025

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: GOVERNOR LAWAL PROMISES ENHANCED WELFARE FOR FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES

PRESS STATEMENT

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: GOVERNOR LAWAL PROMISES ENHANCED WELFARE FOR FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the families of brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The governor participated in the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration on Wednesday at the trade fair complex in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Dauda Lawal donated ₦20 million to the Zamfara State Chapter of the Nigeria Legion while launching the 2025 remembrance emblem a day before the celebration.

The statement added that the governor inspected a guard of honor mounted by the Armed Forces and members of the Nigerian Legion. “Governor Lawal also led the wreath laying and ordered a one-minute silence in honor of the fallen heroes.”

In his remark, Governor Lawal emphasized that Remembrance Day is a tribute to fallen heroes and a call to action for all the people of Zamfara State and the entire country.

“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated nationwide on the 15th day of January every year to commemorate and salute the selfless souls of our veterans who fought gallantly to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, who laid down their lives in sacrifice, so that we may live in peace.

“We appreciate and value their commitment and sacrifice, which have made a difference in our lives today. With gratitude and a sense of duty, we pledged to continue to remember them and support the loved ones they left behind.

“This day is a tribute to our fallen heroes and a call to action for all people of Zamfara State and the entire country. It is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those brave individuals and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values and principles they fought and died for. The legacy of our veterans should inspire us to cherish the relative peace that we enjoy today and to strive for a better tomorrow.

“We must not forget the importance of supporting the families of these fallen heroes and the veterans who fought so that we can go to sleep and who still bear the scars of their service to the nation. Their resilience and dedication must remind us of our responsibility to ensure their well-being. By doing so, we honor their sacrifices and demonstrate our gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our nation.”

The governor noted that, despite limited resources, significant progress is being made in addressing the state’s internal security issues through various measures.

“We must remain vigilant against occasional attacks on soft targets. This administration has not only provided logistical support and essential resources. Still, it has also ensured the well-being of families of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. We are committed to covering medical expenses for those injured in security operations and supporting our heroes and their families.

“As part of the efforts of my administration to compressively address the security challenges, we have provided security vehicles equipped with advanced gadgets, along with motorcycles, to the security operatives. This initiative enhances their ability to access difficult terrains to ensure that no part of our state is vulnerable.

“We remain committed to strengthening strategic alliances with neighboring states, security agencies, and other stakeholders to tackle the security challenges affecting our dear state decisively, as collaboration is key to achieving sustainable peace and stability.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS

Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor

January 15, 2025

Dr. Habib Abubakar Gajam PhD, the Executive Secretary Zamfara Information Technology and Development Agency (ZITDA) celebrates one year in office

Today marks the first anniversary of the Executive Secretary Dr Habib Gajam’s stewardship at the Zamfara Information and Communications Technology Development Agency (ZITDA). It has been a year of dedication, progress, and collaboration in driving the digital transformation agenda for Zamfara State.

Over the past year, we have worked tirelessly to position ZITDA as a hub for innovation, digital capacity building, and e-governance excellence. Together with my dedicated team, we have championed strategic initiatives aimed at empowering our youth, fostering technological inclusion, and creating opportunities for sustainable development through technology.

Key milestones include the successful launch of digital literacy programs, partnerships with key stakeholders in the ICT ecosystem, and the development of frameworks that will shape the future of digital governance in our state. These achievements have been made possible through the unwavering support of the government, our partners, and the hardworking staff of ZITDA.

As we celebrate this anniversary, the Executive Secretary remains committed to furthering our vision of a digitally empowered Zamfara, where technology serves as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and social impact. The journey has just begun, and he is inspired by the endless possibilities ahead.
15 Jan 2025

WeMeanBusiness

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOV’T COMMENDS AIRFORCE, COMMISERATES WITH CIVILIAN CASUALTIES

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOV’T COMMENDS AIRFORCE, COMMISERATES WITH CIVILIAN CASUALTIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the Nigerian military’s efforts in the renewed onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a successful airstrike over the weekend, decisively targeted bandits attacking villages in Zurmi and Maradun Local Government Areas.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Gusau, the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, expressed deep condolences to the families of civilian casualties affected by the airstrike at Tungar Kara in Zurmi LGA.

The statement clarified that the civilian casualties were members of the local vigilante who were mistakenly identified as the bandits fleeing from Gidan Makera in the Boko district of Zurmi LGA.

The statement reads in part: “We have received multiple positive reports of precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma over the weekend in troubled Maradun and Zurmi local government areas.

“This intervention by the military has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the bandits and has shown the commitment of the Nigeria Air Force to carrying out its constitutional mandate of protecting civilians and safeguarding the lives and property of the people.

“As a responsible government, we assure all the people of the State that the Government of Zamfara State remains steadfast in its resolve to sustain the gains made in the fight against banditry and related criminalities. The recent success indicates that the collaborative efforts between the state and federal security agencies yield positive results.

“In light of these achievements, the state government reaffirms its commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to sustain their operations and bring lasting peace to the state.

“We will continue to offer support to enhance intelligence sharing, provide logistics, and strengthen community engagement, all in the spirit of a comprehensive approach to security and achieving the ultimate goal of restoring normalcy across all parts of the state.

“Regrettably, some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and local vigilantes were also affected during the operation in Tungar Kara, resulting in the loss of lives. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant them Jannah.

“The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen JTF personnel and assures them that the sacrifices of the deceased will not go in vain. The government will provide necessary support and assistance to the bereaved families.

“Finally, the government calls on people to be vigilant, report all suspicious activities, and cooperate fully with security personnel. Through collective effort and unity of purpose, the fight against banditry can be won, bringing enduring peace and stability to Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
January 12, 2025

GOV. LAWAL MEETS LIVESTOCK DEV’T MINISTER, SAYS ZAMFARA READY FOR RANCHING

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL MEETS LIVESTOCK DEV’T MINISTER, SAYS ZAMFARA READY FOR RANCHING

Governor Dauda Lawal has assured the Ministry of Livestock Development that Zamfara state has available spaces and is ready for ranching.

On Thursday, the governor visited the Headquarters of the Livestock Ministry on a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Zamfara, being an agrarian state, plays a significant role in the mandate of the Ministry of Livestock Development.

The statement added that the ministry was created in July 2024 to reform Nigeria’s livestock industry, create a safe environment, encourage local and foreign investment, and enhance food security.

During the visit, Governor Lawal expressed his administration’s willingness to collaborate in exploring Zamfara State’s full potential.

“Honourable Minister, as you know, Zamfara is an agrarian society. That is why our motto is, ‘Farming is our pride.’

“We are here today to congratulate you on the establishment of this new ministry, which I believe is timely. Additionally, we aim to foster a strong collaboration between our state and the ministry.

“In Zamfara, several earth dams across the state need rehabilitation to provide for animals, and there may also be opportunities to accommodate any expanded initiatives.

“We invite the Honorable Minister and his team to visit Zamfara to assess the situation on the ground.”

While responding, the honorable minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, thanked Governor Lawal for visiting the ministry.

“Since the ministry was established, we have not received a visit from an executive governor who feels the need to hear what we have to offer.

“I want to assure you that we are prepared to collaborate with you to transform and address your concerns in the livestock sector in Zamfara.

“The livestock sector has long operated informally. We will modernize this sector through various strategic programs.

“Your Excellency, Zamfara State will be the pilot state to showcase the agenda of the new ministry. With this collaboration, we will turn the Gidan jaji in Zamfara into a mini agricultural hub.” He said.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
January 10, 2025

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL APPROVES 13TH MONTH SALARY FOR ZAMFARA WORKERS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL APPROVES 13TH MONTH SALARY FOR ZAMFARA WORKERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary to Zamfara state civil and public servants.

The approval was communicated in a circular issued on the 28th of December 2024 by the Zamfara State Head of Service.

The 13th month salary is the second of its kind in Zamfara State’s history, with the first being paid by Lawal’s administration last December.

Zamfara civil and public servants, including retirees, will receive a bonus of 30% of their basic salary as the 13th month salary.

This initiative acknowledges the dedication and hard work of the Zamfara workforce by providing them with extra financial support during the holiday season.

The 13th-month salary payment is one of several ideas to empower workers and foster economic growth in Zamfara State.

To fulfill its promises, the government has cleared over N10 billion in gratuities owed over the past 11 years, approved a minimum wage of N70,000, and ensured workers’ salaries were paid on time.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 29, 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL SIGNS N546 BILLION 2025 BUDGET INTO LAW, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESCUE AGENDA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL SIGNS N546 BILLION 2025 BUDGET INTO LAW, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESCUE AGENDA

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has signed the 2025 appropriation bill of N546,014,575,000.00 into law.

The 2025 budget, titled “Rescue Budget 2.0,” was presented to the governor by the Zamfara State House of Assembly Speaker on Thursday at the Council Chamber, government house, Gusau.

During the signing of the 2025 appropriation bill, Governor Lawal committed to completing all ongoing legacy projects and building on the successes achieved in his administration’s past 18 months.

The governor highlighted the importance of the 2025 budget, saying that ‘we must not only look at where we are or where we are going, but where we’ve been.

“The situation last year was concerning. A decade of poor governance led to economic collapse, unpaid wages for civil servants, and liabilities that hindered children’s education. Infrastructure was damaged, hospitals were abandoned, and public services became bloated. Additionally, there was a lack of accountability, ongoing electricity bill issues, inadequate water supply, insecurity, and the rise of communicable diseases like cholera, along with declining internal revenue.

“If we had not acted swiftly to all the challenges, Zamfara State would not be a place we all could live in today.

“The 2025 Rescue Budget 2.0 is driven by our commitment to continue the work we’ve started for our people, reflecting strong policies and enthusiasm. This budget also accounts for the increase in the minimum wage for civil servants, rising from N30,000 to N70,000.

“The 2025 budget upholds the best practice of allocating 28% of recurrent expenditure compared to 72% for capital expenditure. The rescue agenda also focuses on key areas for the 2025 budget, including security, education, health, infrastructure, and agriculture.”

Governor Lawal revealed that it is time for Zamfara state to overcome its infrastructure decay and commit to quality architectural development.

The 2025 budget allocates resources to fund the ongoing projects at Gusau International Airport and the construction of the Gusau-Magami to Dansadau Road.

“The 2025 budget allocates resources to the provision of security equipment through the ‘security trust fund,’ building schools through the Agile program, establishing a state-of-the-art diagnostic centre, building a Smart city, food security under the Fadama III program, ease of doing business through the Saber Program, remodelling Bafarawa Institute Shinkafi, and construction of the International Conference Center.

“The ongoing construction of Lalan to Lalan Road, upgrading Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital to a teaching hospital, construction of additional structures in general hospitals of Anka, Kauran namoda, Gummi, Shinkafi, Magami, Tsafe, Jangebe, and Bukkuyum, Improvement of shelter for IDPs through the Solid program, enhancing livestock productivity through the L-Press program, construction of 126 kilometers of magami-dangulbi-dankurmi-bagega-anka road.”

Other projects covered in the 2025 budget are the NG-Cares initiative to empower community development, the construction of Gusau International Sports Center, construction of Mallamawa – Zarummai – Bukkuyyum road, construction of structures for the newly created School of Nursing and midwifery Zurmi, completion of Gusau Shopping Center at the old park, and the construction of a 94-kilometer road in Yandoton Daji- Doka – Yanwaren daji-Hayin alhaji-Bedi – Yankuzo – Tsafe road.

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

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMISSIONS ROAD PROJECT IN RIVERS, LAUDS FUBARA’S VISION AND PERFORMANCE

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMISSIONS ROAD PROJECT IN RIVERS, LAUDS FUBARA’S VISION AND PERFORMANCE

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to various developmental projects in Rivers State.

Governor Lawal was the special guest of honor at the commissioning of the Opobo Ring Road and Bridges project, which took place on Monday in the Opobo/Nkoro local government area.

Delivering his remark at the commissioning, Governor Lawal said that the completion of the Opobo Ring Road and bridges reflects Fubara’s commitment to infrastructural development and improving the socio-economic condition and well-being of the people of Rivers State.

“Infrastructure development, as we know, is a cornerstone of economic growth and social progress. The Opobo Ring Road and Bridges will undoubtedly enhance connectivity, promote trade, and facilitate access to essential services for the residents of Opobo and the environs.

“Creating better transportation links will spur economic activities and open new opportunities for communities in and outside the state. The enhanced infrastructure will surely attract investment, boost tourism, and improve the sense of pride and belonging among the people of Opobo.”

Governor Lawal further reiterated that Governor Fubara’s visionary leadership resonates deeply with his administration’s commitment to transforming the social and economic infrastructures in Zamfara State.

“We share a common vision that robust infrastructure is fundamental to nurturing economic activities and uplifting the standard of living of our people. In Zamfara, we are making remarkable strides by constructing and rehabilitating key projects throughout the state.

“The ongoing Gusau International Airport, as well as the construction of an extensive network of rural and urban roads, are clear testimonies to our desire to improve and modernize critical infrastructure to improve the lives and activity of our electorate. These projects align with our shared vision to create opportunities and lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development.

“I commend Governor Fubara for his commitment to the development of Rivers State. This dedication to creating a better future for your people is genuinely inspiring and a model for other states to emulate.

“Once again, I thank His Excellency for the honor of being part of this significant event. I am confident that the Opobo Ring Road and Bridges will bring lasting benefits to the people of Opobo and contribute significantly to the overall development of Rivers State.”

Earlier, Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed gratitude to Governor Lawal for accepting the invitation to serve as the guest of honor.

Governor Fubara stated that the previous administration launched the project to construct the Opobo Ring Road and bridges on May 28, 2023. “We took over the project redesign and upgraded it to the current standard. This project is personally significant to me, and I am delighted to inaugurate it. It brings me great joy.”

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