ZITDA – Zamfara State Government

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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Jun 25 2026

GOV. LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to fully support security operatives in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor chaired the weekly State Security Council meeting at the Government House in Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the meeting brought together all heads of security agencies in the state.

The statement noted that the council focused on enhancing security presence in volatile areas.

“Governor Dauda Lawal chaired the weekly security council meeting with renewed commitment to strengthening support for the troops.”

“He assured the heads of the security agencies of his readiness to take all necessary measures to ensure the well-being of troops operating in the state.

“The meeting addressed key issues, particularly strengthening troop presence and improving rapid response during emergencies.”

The governor emphasised that his primary concern is a secure Zamfara and assured the heads of the security agencies that his office always remains accessible to them.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 25, 2026

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Jun 22 2026

Advancing Strategic Partnerships for Zamfara’s Digital Transformation

As part of the Zamfara State Government and Northwest Governors’ Forum strategic mission to Sweden, under the leadership of His Excellency Dauda Lawal, Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency – ZITDA engaged with leading Swedish institutions and partners to advance practical collaborations that support Zamfara’s digital and economic transformation agenda.

Key engagements included:

Ericsson – Discussions focused on cybersecurity, secure connectivity, telecommunications infrastructure, and strategies for expanding digital access across Zamfara and the wider Northwest region.

SPIDER, Stockholm University – Explored partnerships in digital governance, digital inclusion, capacity building, and support for the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology – ZIIT.

Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) – Discussions centred on applied research, innovation, technology adoption, institutional development, and collaborative research initiatives.

Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) – Discussed regulatory best practices, broadband expansion, digital infrastructure development, and universal access initiatives.

Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) – Explored opportunities for development cooperation, institutional strengthening, digital skills development, youth empowerment, and sustainable development programmes.

Norrsken Foundation – Explored opportunities to connect Zamfara’s emerging innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups to global innovation networks, mentorship opportunities, and impact investment ecosystems.

These engagements reinforce the vision of His Excellency Governor Dauda Lawal to position technology, innovation, and human capital development at the centre of Zamfara’s transformation agenda. ZITDA remains committed to converting these strategic discussions into concrete partnerships, programmes, and investments that deliver measurable impact for the people of Zamfara State.

#ZITDA #DigitalZamfara #Innovation #Cybersecurity #DigitalSkills #ZIIT #DigitalTransformation #SwedenMission #PartnershipsForDevelopment

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Jun 11 2026

FG COMMISSIONS AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING CENTRE IN GUSAU, TRAINS 100 YOUTHS IN MECHATRONICS

PRESS STATEMENT

FG COMMISSIONS AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING CENTRE IN GUSAU, TRAINS 100 YOUTHS IN MECHATRONICS

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) trained 100 youths in mechatronics to repair petrol and CNG powered tricycles and motorcycles in Zamfara State.

The automotive centre in Gusau was commissioned on Thursday by the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the centre and training were coordinated through a collaboration between the NADCC and the Zamfara State office of the Made in Nigeria Special Project.

The statement noted that the Automotive Training Centres (ATCs) were established in all six geo-political zones, providing equal access to training and technical services.

In his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said that advances in mechatronics, electric mobility, alternative fuel technologies, smart diagnostics, and digital systems are redefining transportation worldwide.

He said, “I warmly welcome the Hon. Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; the Chairman of the NADDC Governing Board, Chief Emma Eneukwu; the Director-General and CEO of NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, along with our development partners and private sector representatives.

“I wish to express my profound appreciation to the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). Through its visionary leadership and commitment to skills development, NADDC has continued to position Nigeria to become one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturing nations.

“I also commend (PADSON Group) Nigeria Limited, the Made-in-Nigeria Project Office, the program facilitators, and all stakeholders whose dedication and collaboration have made this project a reality.”

“As a government, we recognise that the future belongs to societies that invest in knowledge, innovation, and human capital development. It is therefore imperative that our youths acquire industry-relevant competencies that enable them to compete favourably in the rapidly evolving global economy.

“After assuming office in 2023, I visited NADDC in Abuja within a month to seek collaboration in equipping youths with practical automotive skills. I believe empowering youth with employable skills is vital to fight poverty, unemployment, and insecurity. I’m pleased that this vision has now materialised.

“Today marks a milestone in our commitment to youth empowerment, skills, technology, and economic growth in Zamfara State, opening doors to opportunities, innovation, self-reliance, and prosperity for our young people.”

The governor emphasised that establishing the Centre in Zamfara aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on youth development, industrialisation, and cleaner energy through the Presidential CNG Initiative.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Owan, said the Federal Government has intensified its engagements with international investors and leading automotive manufacturers to establish automotive industrial hubs and expand local production capabilities across Nigeria.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 11, 2026

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May 27 2026

EID EL-ADHA 2026: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR URGES INCREASED PRAYERS FOR PEACE

PRESS STATEMENT

EID EL-ADHA 2026: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR URGES INCREASED PRAYERS FOR PEACE

Governor Dauda Lawal has called for more prayers for peace in Zamfara State and Nigeria.

The governor, in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, extended his felicitations to Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.

Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated annually by Muslims around the world on the 10th of Dhulhijjah, is a festival of sacrifice.

It is a festival that honours the obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) to Allah (SWT).

In his message to the people of Zamfara, Governor Lawal expressed gratitude to Allah for witnessing the historic airlift of pilgrims from Gusau International Airport.

“I felicitate with the Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha 2026.

“The sacrifice performed during Eid is symbolic of Prophet Ibrahim’s submission and is also part of the Hajj rites for pilgrims.

“I want to use this opportunity to call on the good people of Zamfara, especially our pilgrims, to remain steadfast in prayers for our state and Nigeria.

“We have made progress in the fight against banditry, which is why dispersed communities are returning to their homes.

“Last week, we successfully returned thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral community of Fegin Kanawa Village in Gusau Local Government Area after over a year of displacement.

“We are committed to ensuring the safe return of all displaced persons to their homes. Such successes are only possible due to our collective prayers. I urge us to pray more, especially during sacred religious festivals.

“I wish everyone a peaceful Eid celebration.”

The governor joined thousands for the Eid prayer at the Gusau Central Eid prayer ground.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 27, 2026

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May 22 2026

ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL EMERGES APC CONSENSUS CANDIDATE, VOWS MORE DEV’T PROJECTS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL EMERGES APC CONSENSUS CANDIDATE, VOWS MORE DEV’T PROJECTS

Governor Dauda Lawal has committed to continuing and increasing development projects to enhance the living standards of the people of Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor emerged as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Zamfara state governorship for the 2027 general election.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Chairman of the APC Governorship Primaries in Zamfara State, Alhaji Babagana Uba, declared that Governor Lawal was unanimously adopted as the APC candidate with 301,893 votes.

He added that the party’s affirmation was conducted across the 14 local government areas of Zamfara State and was witnessed by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The statement read in parts, “The Zamfara State Governorship primary election committee declared Governor Dauda Lawal as the sole candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

“The State’s primary election committee received the collation officers’ adoption results from all 14 local government areas, which were duly signed by Malam Abubakar Mohammed Nakwada, the APC state collation chief, along with other members of the Zamfara State APC collation team.

“The chairman of the committee announced the affirmation and adoption results from various local government areas. Anka, 16,607; Bakura, 18,112; Birnin Magaji, 15,440; Bukkuyum, 11,4061; Bungudu, 24,4061; Gummi, 23,1024; Gusau, 61,4072; Kaura Namoda, 18,3015; Maradun, 15,6024; Maru, 17,3041; Shinkafi, 15,204; Talata Mafara, 22,884; Tsafe, 19,3054; and Zurmi, 22,506.”

In his remarks immediately after the committee’s declaration, Governor Lawal thanked the people of Zamfara for their trust and for the massive turnout of party loyalists across the state.

He assured that his administration is committed to various development projects across key sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy.

He said, “Today will remain a historic day in the political history of our state because all the major stakeholders in the state have unanimously come together under one umbrella as a united force.

“As I was declared the consensus candidate of our great party, the APC, I want to thank all members of the party and the people of the state for their trust in my administration.

“These massive displays of support and love will encourage me to do more in our quest to rescue and rebuild Zamfara State.

“I want to thank the chairman of the primary election committee, its members, and other committees who made the party primaries a great success in Zamfara.”

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

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