HIGH-LEVEL TURKISH FIRM BEGINS MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOVERNOR LAWAL RECEIVES DIREKCI GROUPS

PRESS STATEMENT

HIGH-LEVEL TURKISH FIRM BEGINS MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOVERNOR LAWAL RECEIVES DIREKCI GROUPS

A prominent Turkish company, Direkci Group, will begin mechanized farming and incorporate greenhouses to diversify agriculture in Zamfara State.

On Saturday, Nurullah Mehmet, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Direkci Group, led a delegation on an official visit to Governor Dauda Lawal at his office in the government house in Gusau.

The Turkish firm plans to revolutionize agriculture in Zamfara State by cultivating cotton, sugarcane, and soybeans on a large scale.

In addition to traditional farming, the group will introduce mechanized farming methods, including greenhouse technology and poultry farming, which promise substantial benefits across multiple fronts.

In his remarks, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring food security and creating employment opportunities for the people of Zamfara State.

“As I promised during the campaign, if elected, my government will focus on security, agriculture and food security, education, healthcare, the economy, and empowerment.

“Our beloved state, Zamfara, is recognized as an agricultural society. Our goal is to revive this sector. We aim to secure the state so people can return to their farms.

“Most importantly, after securing the farms, the next step is to provide advanced technologies for our farmers, as we already have the land and the workforce.

“This is why we enthusiastically welcome partnerships and collaborations with investors with a proven track record, such as the Direkci Groups.

“I traveled to Turkey in July, visiting greenhouse projects, dairy farming, poultry operations, and the Turk Traktor manufacturing plant. The Direkci Group is in Zamfara to introduce technological advancements in agriculture.”

Earlier, Nurullah Mehmet, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Direkci Groups, commended Governor Lawal for the many projects his administration has initiated in a short time.

“Our company, Direkci, is undertaking various projects across different states in Nigeria.

“Direkci’s agricultural Initiative in Zamfara state will enhance agricultural value chains and attract investment, fostering local economic growth.

“The introduction of greenhouses allows year-round cultivation, unaffected by seasonal changes. Improved crop yield and quality contribute to local food availability and reduce import dependence.

“Mechanized farming and poultry initiatives will create employment opportunities across various skill levels, from farmworkers to agribusiness professionals.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 09, 2024

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS AFREXIM INVESTMENT CONFERENCE IN KENYA, SAYS ZAMFARA STATE IS SEEKING TRANSPARENT PARTNERSHIPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS AFREXIM INVESTMENT CONFERENCE IN KENYA, SAYS ZAMFARA STATE IS SEEKING TRANSPARENT PARTNERSHIPS

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to focus on transparent and open development partnerships that leverage Zamfara State’s unique social and economic advantages.

The governor represented the Nigeria Governors Forum and was a panelist at the fourth Africa Sub-Sovereign Network Conference, held on Monday at the Swiss Grand Royal Hotel in Kisumu County, Kenya.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the conference, which started from November 25 to 27, was declared open by the President of Kenya, Dr. Williams Ruto.

The statement added that the theme for the AfsNET conference is “Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns.”

Governor Lawal, delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigeria Governors Forum, says this year’s theme of the AfsNET conference resonates with the developmental aspirations of African sub-national governments. “It challenges us to align our strategies and resources toward unlocking the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“In Nigeria, we recognize the critical role of sub-national governments in driving trade, investment, and economic growth. Our 36 states are diverse economic hubs, each with unique comparative advantages contributing to the national economy.

“One example of leveraging trade for sustainable development can be seen in the Kaduna State Agro-Allied Industrial Zone, a public-private partnership initiative designed to integrate agricultural production with processing and export.

“This project demonstrates how sub-sovereigns can harness local resources and the AfCFTA framework to enhance value addition and expand market access across Africa. Similarly, the Lekki Free Trade Zone has become a model of industrialization and foreign direct investment attraction in Lagos State. Its strategic location and integration into regional trade corridors highlight the importance of infrastructure and institutional support in realizing AfCFTA’s benefits.”

At the panel discussion on creating sustainable solutions for the development of the African Region, Governor Lawal highlighted that development and sustainability are intertwined concepts that aim to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.

“As governor within the Northwest sub-region of Nigeria, which includes six other Governors, we have created the Northwest Governors’ Forum to articulate and harmonize policies that will engender regional cooperation for sustainable development. This has already begun to yield results that facilitate prosperity within the sub-region.

“To sustain any development solution, the collaboration between governments at different levels in development efforts is critical and the way out. Decisive, accountable, and transparent institutions are needed to inspire confidence in the stakeholders.

On security, Governor Lawal emphasized that without a secure environment, governments cannot efficiently provide social services such as education, healthcare, gender equality, elimination of inequality, and foster economic empowerment of the most vulnerable, essential prerequisites for sustained development.

“Constitutional provisions limit the scope of a Governor in terms of providing security to the people he governs; nonetheless, we have made concerted efforts to ensure that our environment remains secure by establishing the Community Protection Guard (CPG), which has curtailed the level of insecurity experienced before the advent of my administration.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 27, 2024

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF GUSAU ULTRA-MODERN MOTOR PARK, VOWS TO CREATE NUMEROUS JOB OPPORTUNITIES

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF GUSAU ULTRA-MODERN MOTOR PARK, VOWS TO CREATE NUMEROUS JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to creating job opportunities for people whose livelihoods are closely tied to motor park activities.

On Monday, the governor flagged off the construction of Central Ultra-Modern Motor Park on Sokoto-Zaria Road in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the project awarded to Fieldmark Construction LTD will include ample parking spaces, rest areas for drivers, enhanced security installations, and a well-organized ticketing system to streamline operations.

During his remarks at the commissioning, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized that the project is a vital part of his administration’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure in Gusau.

He said: “This initiative will enhance security, boost revenue generation, and enable our city to compete favourably with others across the country.

“This state-of-the-art motor park will feature modern facilities designed to accommodate commuters, passengers, and commercial motorists in a safe, efficient, and organized manner.

“Other essential components of this project include designated departure lines, a police outpost, a clinic, a fire brigade station, a mosque, an administrative block, a union office, public conveniences, a park hotel, a loading bay, a shopping mall, a travellers’ terminal, a waste disposal unit, a warehouse, a workshop, and a car wash area.

“During the construction phase, the project will employ both skilled and unskilled labourers, and once operational, the park will become a hub for commercial activities, which will benefit entrepreneurs, service providers, and countless others.

The Governor reaffirmed his conviction that providing critical infrastructure, such as the roads his administration began constructing shortly after assuming office—some of which were inaugurated during the first anniversary—is one of the most effective ways to stimulate business activities and build prosperity.

“Beyond its economic impact, this initiative also beautifies our state capital by our broader vision of creating a modern, vibrant, and liveable environment for our people.

“With these remarks, I am pleased to officially flag off the construction of the new Gusau Central Motor Park. May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala bless this endeavour and make it a source of immense prosperity and development for the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 18, 2024

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES SIX COMMITTEES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DEV’T POLICIES, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO REBUILD ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES SIX COMMITTEES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DEV’T POLICIES, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO REBUILD ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing principles of good governance in the operations of public offices in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor inaugurated six committees to implement Zamfara’s development policies and programs at the old council chamber of the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the committees inaugurated are the Human Capital Development Council, the Committee to Combat Drug Abuse, the Land Use and Allocation Committee, and the Development Plan Committee.

The statement added that other committees inaugurated are the Committee for Nigeria’s Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity in Governance and the Committee for the World Bank’s Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities.

At the inauguration, Governor Lawal reiterated that members were carefully selected from various sectors constituting the committees, including the State Executive Council, Permanent Secretaries, technocrats, academics, seasoned administrators, and individuals.

“The Human Capital Development Council will be chaired by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Mani Mallam Mummini Masamar Mudi, with the Honourable Senior Special Assistant on Human Capital Development as the Secretary.

“The mandate of this committee is to ensure a proper framework for community engagement that enhances the sustainability of government projects and programs on human development. It will also coordinate the mandates of human capital development-related MDAs and eliminate bottlenecks in service delivery.

“Through this committee, the government will ensure the optimal utilization of the knowledge and skills acquired by our people, particularly the youth and women, to empower them to realize their full potential as productive members of society.

“The second committee is tasked with addressing the pressing problem of drug abuse in the state. This committee will conduct a comprehensive assessment of drug abuse in our communities, examining the types of drugs being abused, the demographics of users, and the rate of prevalence.

“Additionally, it will investigate the root causes of drug abuse and recommend prevention and intervention strategies. The First Lady, Her Excellency Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, will chair this committee, and the Secretary will be the Director of Pharmacy, Ministry of Health.

“The following committee is finalizing the Zamfara State Ten-Year Development Plan, 2024–2033. Its mandate is to ensure that the content of the draft development plan, presented two months ago, is well-structured and aligns with the national standards and our transformation agenda.

“The committee will also provide insights into governance and institutional processes targeted by reforms. It should also work closely with UNICEF’s Sokoto Field Office for the plan’s actualization, approval, and launch. Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, the Honourable Education, Science, and Technology Commissioner, will chair this committee.

“The State Land Use and Allocation Committee, a strategic body, will provide land administration and management policy direction. It will process applications for land allocation, recommend suitable candidates to the Governor, and offer advice on the revocation of land rights in cases of overriding public interest.

“Additionally, the committee will determine compensation for land use. The committee is chaired by Alhaji Ali Bako, a veteran land surveyor and retired Permanent Secretary.

“The Steering Committee for the World Bank Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities, or Solid Project, will be led by Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, Honourable Commissioner of Budget and Planning. This committee is responsible for domesticating the World Bank’s Durable Solutions for IDPs and Host Communities Project, which the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning coordinates.

“The project aims to improve access to essential services and economic opportunities for IDPs and host communities in displacement-affected local government areas of Northern Nigeria, including Zamfara State.

“The final committee being inaugurated is the Steering Committee for Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity in Governance.

“This is part of a national program Zamfara State intends to enter. This program comprises three interdependent operations designed to address various challenges and support resource allocation and expenditure improvements for basic education and primary healthcare services. The committee will focus on increasing the availability and effectiveness of financing for primary education and healthcare, improving transparency and accountability, and enhancing recruitment and performance management for teachers and healthcare workers.”

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

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR COMMISERATES WITH GUMMI FLOOD VICTIMS, ASSURES IMMEDIATE SUPPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR COMMISERATES WITH GUMMI FLOOD VICTIMS, ASSURES IMMEDIATE SUPPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal has commiserated with victims of flooding in Gummi local government area of Zamfara State.

Heavy rainfall on Friday caused flooding in some areas of the Gummi local government area, submerging scores of houses.

In a statement on Saturday by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor expressed deep concern and sympathy for the Gummi flood victims.

The statement read in part: “I received sad news about the flooding in some parts of the Gummi local government area. This is genuinely distressing, and my thoughts are with everyone affected.

“I have been in contact with the relevant authorities, leaders, and elders in the local government since the unfortunate incident.

“I immediately sent a delegation from the Zamfara State Government to the local government to assess the situation and provide immediate relief support to the victims.

“My government is committed to taking all necessary measures to prevent future occurrences of such sad incidents. All hands will be on deck to ensure that victims of the flooding receive the necessary support they may require.”

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

WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO RESCUE AND REBUILD ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL TELLS RELIGIOUS LEADERS

PRESS STATEMENT

WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO RESCUE AND REBUILD ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL TELLS RELIGIOUS LEADERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has urged the Zamfara State Council of Ulama to collaborate with his administration to rescue and rebuild the state.

The governor made the call during the inauguration of the Zamfara State Ulama Consultative Council, which took place on Tuesday at the council chambers in the government house, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, emphasized the Council’s crucial advisory role in influencing government decisions to align with religious principles.

He added that over the past 21 years, the Ulama Council has made invaluable contributions to the state and society in Zamfara, demonstrating its significant influence on government decisions.

While delivering his remark, Governor Lawal assured the Ulama Consultative Forum that his doors are always open to receive the council’s invaluable advice on matters of state policy and the general well-being of the people.

“As we gather here today, I am filled with profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us the opportunity to inaugurate the newly reconstituted Council of Ulama.

“This Council, also known as the Ulama Consultative Council, was established in 2003 as a critical institution in the government’s drive to strengthen Sharia implementation in Zamfara State. The Council comprises eminent Islamic scholars and guides our society’s moral, spiritual, and economic development.

“The Council’s enactment law, which is Law Number 6 of 2003, has made elaborate provisions, among other things, on the functions of the Council.

“Some of these are screening, recommending, and advising on the qualifications, competence, and fitness of a person to be appointed as Sharia court Alkali.

“Issuing responses to questions (fatwas) or issues in Islamic jurisprudence.

“Receiving research findings relating to new developments emanating from technological advancement and other contemporary issues.

“Advising the Governor on the conformity or otherwise with the principles of Sharia in respect of any bill for a Law.

Furthermore, the governor charged the religious leaders to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with passion, commitment, and due diligence after the reconstitution and inauguration of the Council.

“You are all esteemed Islamic scholars that society looks up to for moral and spiritual guidance. You should not rest on your laurels in carrying out your responsibilities as members of the Council of Ulama and as the pillars of society.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 30, 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR LAUDS PRESIDENT TINUBU FOR ASSENTING TO NORTH WEST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION BILL

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR LAUDS PRESIDENT TINUBU FOR ASSENTING TO NORTH WEST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION BILL

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the North West Development Commission Bill into law.

On Tuesday, the president signed bills creating the North West Development Commission (NWDC) and the South East Development Commission.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Gusau, the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, expressed that establishing the commission would create more opportunities for development in the North West.

The statement added that Governor Lawal hopes the commission will quickly come into force to address the long years of underdevelopment suffered by the region.

“I sincerely thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the North West Development Commission bill into law.

“This demonstrates the president’s concern for the deeply distressed people of the North West region, who have endured years of banditry and related crimes.

“The North-West Development Commission was established to help rebuild roads, houses, and businesses destroyed during the crises that affected the region. Its purpose also includes addressing poverty, low literacy levels, ecological problems, and other barriers to developing the North-West states.

“The governors of the North West have been collaborating effectively. Establishing the North West Development Commission is a positive step, and we will work together to ensure its success.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 25, 2024

TURKISH INVESTORS TO ESTABLISH GREENHOUSES, MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOV LAWAL ATTRACTS FOREIGN INVESTMENTS

PRESS STATEMENT

TURKISH INVESTORS TO ESTABLISH GREENHOUSES, MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOV LAWAL ATTRACTS FOREIGN INVESTMENTS

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has secured significant foreign investments from top-level Turkish investors.

The governor traveled to Turkey in the first week of July, where he met prominent investors and toured advanced factories in different cities.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal started his official visit to Turkey on Sunday, June 30th, which lasted six days.

According to the statement, the governor and his entourage toured greenhouse projects, dairy farming and poultry, and the Turk Traktor (tractors) manufacturing plant.

“The official visit in Turkey commenced with Governor Lawal’s visit to Bursa City, where Direkci Group has the biggest greenhouse project in the country.

“The Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Direkci Group, Mehmet Nurullah Direkçi, led the tour of the greenhouse project.

“The Direkci Group provides services to Turkish agriculture and international investors through turn-key modern greenhouse projects. The group plans to establish modernized and mechanized greenhouse projects in Zamfara state.

“In Zamfara, the Direkci Group plans to establish various greenhouses, including Soilless Greenhouse, Soil Greenhouse, Polyclima Greenhouse, Transplanting, Ornamental Production Greenhouse, and Banana Growing Greenhouse.”

While in Gaziantep City, Governor Lawal visited Innova Dairy Farm, which provides advice and innovative solutions for setting up and managing modern farms efficiently.

“The Innova Dairy Farm will establish a system in Zamfara state to gather all advanced technologies, including Patented Rumination and Activity Monitoring, Herd Management System, Cooling, Milking, Manure Management, and Barn Equipment.”

In Sakarya Province, Governor Lawal and his entourage visited the Türk Traktör (Tractors) manufacturing plant to assess the production process of various tractors suitable for farming in Nigeria.

“At the Türk Traktör manufacturing plant, Governor Lawal discussed a possible collaboration and partnership with the company to enable Zamfara State to acquire these modern tractors.

“Turk Traktor has the capability to produce New Holland and Case IH tractors at the same time. The company is the first tractor-exporting company in Turkey and accounted for 88% of the total tractor exports of the country in 2022.

“TürkTraktör is a significant global player with exports to 125 countries and handles around 80% of the total export volume to the North American and European markets.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 11, 2024

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF DISTRIBUTION OF TONNES OF ASSORTED COMMODITIES TO VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF DISTRIBUTION OF TONNES OF ASSORTED COMMODITIES TO VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has flagged off the distribution of tonnes of assorted commodities to vulnerable households in Zamfara.

The flag-off ceremony was held on Monday at the Zamfara State Commissioner for the Humanitarian Affairs office in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the Zamfara Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) handed various commodities to the State Government for distribution to the less privileged.

According to the statement, Dr. Ishaya Chonoko, the NEMA’s Zonal Director of the Northwest Zone, represented the agency’s Director General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, at the ceremony.

During his speech, Governor Lawal disclosed that the distribution comes at a crucial time as people are facing significant challenges due to bandit activities and the impact of recently introduced policies aimed at strengthening the nation’s economy.

He said: “I wish to express my gratitude to Mr President for his determination to end the menace of insecurity, as without this commitment, no meaningful achievements can be recorded in any sector that contributes to development. This assistance will undoubtedly provide much-needed relief to the beneficiaries and significantly support the ongoing efforts of the State Government in this regard.

“This effort by the Federal Government will complement my administration’s efforts to address the longstanding problem of banditry in the state and provide succor to our teeming populace.

“Since my assumption in office as the Governor, I have been working tirelessly to garner support for our fight against banditry and support the vulnerable people across the state, especially women, children, and the elderly. On behalf of the good people of Zamfara, I thank the Federal Government for this and numerous other supports extended to our state.

“Needless to say, these items will go a long way in alleviating the food difficulties faced by our people. I, therefore, urge those receiving the items to make the best use of them.

“With these few remarks, it is my pleasure, on behalf of the Government and the good people of Zamfara State, to receive 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted commodities and flag off their distribution to vulnerable residents of Zamfara State.

“May Almighty Allah continue to crown all our efforts with success at various levels of governance. May He also restore the legendary harmonious coexistence among our people. May these commodities serve their intended purpose of providing immediate relief to the vulnerable persons across the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 20, 2024

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL PAYS N4.3 BILLION AS BACKLOG OF GRATUITY OWED SINCE 2011

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL PAYS N4.3 BILLION AS BACKLOG OF GRATUITY OWED SINCE 2011

Governor Dauda Lawal has paid over four billion Naira in gratuities to retired workers in Zamfara State, which has been owed since 2011.

Retired state and local government workers in Zamfara State have not received the gratuities that have accumulated over the years.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that gratuity payments began in February for state and local government workers after retirees were authenticated and validated.

According to the statement, the Zamfara state government has paid a total of N4,337,087,492.06 billion in four batches to state and local government retirees.

“In February, Governor Dauda Lawal set up a committee to validate retiree data and settle the gratuity debt that has accumulated since 2011 as part of his effort to sanitize the civil service in Zamfara State.

“After verifying the data of retired civil servants in Zamfara, the government discovered that state and local governments owed a total of N13.4 billion.

“In the first, second, and third tranches of payment, 1,088 verified state pensioners were paid their total gratuity entitlements. The total amount paid was N1,836,836,018.95

“This month, 284 verified state pensioners were paid their gratuity arrears worth N499,435,942.42 in the fourth batch. The total amount paid by the state pension rose to N2,336,271,961.37.

“Furthermore, a total of 1,744 retired Local Government and Primary School Teachers who retired between 2011 and 2018 have been paid N2,000,815,530.69 in four batches.

“The ongoing gratuity payment is a remarkable achievement, and it is expected to provide some relief to the beneficiaries who have been waiting for years to receive their benefits.

“Governor Lawal’s administration has shown that it remains focused on fulfilling its promises to the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 10, 2024

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL PAYS N4.3 BILLION AS BACKLOG OF GRATUITY OWED SINCE 2011

Governor Dauda Lawal has paid over four billion Naira in gratuities to retired workers in Zamfara State, which has been owed since 2011.

Retired state and local government workers in Zamfara State have not received the gratuities that have accumulated over the years.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that gratuity payments began in February for state and local government workers after retirees were authenticated and validated.

According to the statement, the Zamfara state government has paid a total of N4,337,087,492.06 billion in four batches to state and local government retirees.

“In February, Governor Dauda Lawal set up a committee to validate retiree data and settle the gratuity debt that has accumulated since 2011 as part of his effort to sanitize the civil service in Zamfara State.

“After verifying the data of retired civil servants in Zamfara, the government discovered that state and local governments owed a total of N13.4 billion.

“In the first, second, and third tranches of payment, 1,088 verified state pensioners were paid their total gratuity entitlements. The total amount paid was N1,836,836,018.95

“This month, 284 verified state pensioners were paid their gratuity arrears worth N499,435,942.42 in the fourth batch. The total amount paid by the state pension rose to N2,336,271,961.37.

“Furthermore, a total of 1,744 retired Local Government and Primary School Teachers who retired between 2011 and 2018 have been paid N2,000,815,530.69 in four batches.

“The ongoing gratuity payment is a remarkable achievement, and it is expected to provide some relief to the beneficiaries who have been waiting for years to receive their benefits.

“Governor Lawal’s administration has shown that it remains focused on fulfilling its promises to the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 10, 2024