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

GOV. LAWAL PRESIDES OVER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, APPROVES ESTABLISHMENT OF ZAMFARA ECONOMIC PLANNING BOARD

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL PRESIDES OVER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, APPROVES ESTABLISHMENT OF ZAMFARA ECONOMIC PLANNING BOARD

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the establishment of the Zamfara Economic Planning Board.

The governor chaired an extraordinary meeting of the Zamfara State Executive Council on Thursday at the council chambers of Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the council had approved key projects that would benefit the development of Zamfara state.

“During an extraordinary Executive Council meeting yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal approved the establishment of the Zamfara Economic Planning Board. The Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Hon. Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam will lead the board.

“The Zamfara Economic Planning Board will develop and implement economic policies and plans to promote sustainable development and growth in the state and is expected to play a key role in driving economic progress and prosperity in the region.

“The economic planning board will go a long way in ensuring the state attends all its economic policies for the betterment of the good people of Zamfara State.

“The planning board will be a collaborative effort, comprising all State Executive Council members, local government chairmen, and key drivers of the state economy within the civil service. The board is similar to the National Economic Council.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 03, 2024

WE DID NOT BORROW 14.26BN; IT WAS PROCEEDS OF N20 BILLION LOAN FLOATED BY PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATION, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T

WE DID NOT BORROW 14.26BN; IT WAS PROCEEDS OF N20 BILLION LOAN FLOATED BY PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATION, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T

The Zamfara State Government has disclosed that the sum of 14.26 billion was not borrowed but part of the proceeds from a 20 billion naira loan floated by the previous administration.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that no domestic or external loans have been borrowed since Governor Dauda Lawal took office.

“We would like to clarify the Debt Management Office (DMO) report that the Zamfara State Government borrowed N14.26 billion naira.

“Zamfara State Government has never applied for loans or approached the State Assembly or National Assembly for such a request.

“It is important to note that the previous Zamfara state government floated a N20 billion bond but failed to collect the total amount.

“The immediate past government received N4 billion naira out of the 20 billion loans requested for the Zamfara cargo airport project, though the funds were not utilized.

“Upon assuming office, we discovered that the payment terms made terminating the bond impossible without incurring a significant loss for the state.

“The balance of N16 billion Naira out of the N20 billion borrowed by the past administration is the N14.26 billion captured by the Debt Management Office (DMO). The value is reduced due to inflation.

“The bond balance, which is still in a government account, has not been used and will be reserved for the airport project.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 01, 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL CHAIRS EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, CHARGES CABINET ON ACCOUNTABILITY

GOVERNOR LAWAL CHAIRS EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, CHARGES CABINET ON ACCOUNTABILITY

Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in governance, urging all cabinet members to prioritize their responsibilities.

On Monday, the governor presided over the Zamfara State Executive Council meeting held at the council chambers, Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the council discussed various issues related to the state’s development agenda, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.

According to the statement, it was the eighteenth executive council meeting since the rescue administration began.

The council discussed the progress in infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and security, among other important matters.

At the meeting, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the state achieves its developmental goals.

The governor encouraged council members to be diligent and efficient in their respective roles.

Furthermore, the council was briefed with a comprehensive report on the status of the ongoing renovation of the state’s secretariat complex. The report provided detailed information on the progress made so far, including the completion of the first phase of the renovation project.

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

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS OFFICE COMPLEX OF ZAMFARA SECURITY TRUST FUND, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS OFFICE COMPLEX OF ZAMFARA SECURITY TRUST FUND, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to support the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund.

On Friday, the Zamfara Governor led the commissioning of the Security Trust Fund office complex in the state capital, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the Zamfara Security Trust Fund is chaired by the former Inspector General of Police, MD Abubakar.

According to the statement, the work done to bring the Office Complex up to standard exemplifies the Board of Trustees’ efficiency and commitment to fulfilling their mandate.

During the commissioning ceremony, Governor Lawal urged other states to establish similar funds, harmonize plans, and foster a regional approach to security issues.

He said: “As the Security Trust Fund settles into a structured environment to work, I urge collaboration with similar funds being set up by other states in our region. Together, we are stronger.

“The Fund has so much to do as it gets to work. An added area of focus for the Fund should also be the desensitization of our children and youth from the mindset of living in times of conflict and the simmering ethnic profiling that has sadly reared its head in some communities as a resultant effect of banditry. This is necessary for meaningful development to be sustained.

“Under the able and capable leadership of the Fund’s Chairman, IGP M.D Abubakar (Rtd), and other Eminent Members of the Board of Trustees, we look to your collective immediate and purposeful impact on the lives of our people as you all have always done throughout your personal and professional lives.

“We place that trust in you, for we know you all have the shoulders to carry such a burden. Thank you for your service and duty to your home state.

“A recurring decimal in my interactions wherever I go when these pockets of attacks happen is the commendable efforts of the Community Protection Guards that we have just formed in mitigating the severity and in search and rescue.

“We intend to continue our efforts at community engagement, continuous sensitization, and ensuring adherence to the rules of justice, fairness, and the code of conduct that all CPG members have sworn to.”

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

HIGHWAY INSPECTION: MINISTER OF WORKS VISITS ZAMFARA, COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL’S URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT

HIGHWAY INSPECTION: MINISTER OF WORKS VISITS ZAMFARA, COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL’S URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT

Governor Dauda Lawal was commended by the Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi, for his administration’s remarkable progress in urban renewal projects.

On Friday, the Minister visited Zamfara as part of his inspection tour of federal road projects in the state.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the minister inspected ongoing federal road projects that covered a total distance of 277.305 kilometres, starting from Zaria to Sheme, Sheme to Gusau, and Gusau to Mafara.

The statement added that the minister and his entourage observed the tremendous achievements recorded in the ongoing urban renewal project of Governor Lawal’s led administration.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal applauded the minister for his initiative to inspect the federal highway constructions.

“I can assure you that there is hope because we have seen situations where contracts were awarded for road construction, but no one came for supervision from the federal government. Your inspection tour is commendable.

“Honorable Minister, as confirmed by you, the road dualisation has not stopped, as rumored. This is very good news.

“I want to express my gratitude for your kind words. As a responsible government, we are working hard to change the negative narrative of Zamfara State. In the past, whenever you heard about Zamfara State, it was always negative. But now, we are trying to rescue and rebuild the state.

“I also want to sincerely thank the President for his outstanding efforts executing key Federal projects. We will continue to support his good policies.”

During his speech, the Honorable Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the inspection tour for firsthand information on the condition of the ongoing projects.

“Your Excellency, we are here on the directives of the President to inspect ongoing road projects and convey his greetings to you.

“The President is committed to completing all ongoing projects, including the dualisation of federal roads, not only in Zamfara but across the country.

“I commend you on the positive impact of your consistent efforts in the urban renewal projects that have transformed Zamfara in just nine months.”

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State, was part of the minister’s entourage

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
March 01, 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL TO CONSTRUCT VEHICLE TRANSIT AREAS AS PART OF THE ZAMFARA URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL TO CONSTRUCT VEHICLE TRANSIT AREAS AS PART OF THE ZAMFARA URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT

Governor Dauda Lawal hosted the leadership of the Zamfara State chapter of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD).

The meeting held on Tuesday in Government House, Gusau, discussed several issues, including the construction of vehicle transit areas and traffic management in the Zamfara capital city.

A statement issued by the spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the vehicle transit areas will be established to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion as part of the ongoing urban renewal project.

He added that Governor Lawal plans to establish the designated vehicle transit areas on two state axes to improve transportation infrastructure.

Addressing members of the two unions, Governor Lawal said the initiative will lead to an enhancement of the quality of roads in the state’s capital.

“I have directed the construction of trailer parks at two entrances of Gusau: one on the Funtua to Gusau road and the other on Sokoto to Gusau road. I invited NARTO and PTD members to join the committee to set up vehicle transit areas.

“We will conduct a thorough assessment of potential locations to determine the most suitable spots for the trailer park construction. We will take into consideration factors such as accessibility, demand, and available resources to ensure that the parks not only generate revenue for the state government but also provide a valuable and enjoyable experience for visitors.”

The Chairman of the Zamfara state chapter of NARTO, Alhaji Mustapha Musa Sarkin Kagara, assured Governor Lawal of their members’ compliance with the initiative.

He said: “We will ensure that the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) support the government in establishing the proposed trailer parks.

“We are honoured with this invitation to discuss a critical matter regarding our work. We will comply and give maximum cooperation to ensure that vehicle transit areas or trailer parks are established. This project will create over 5000 job opportunities for the people of Zamfara. Both NARTO and PTD will ensure total compliance with the plan.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 27, 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, RECEIVES UPDATE ON ONGOING PROJECTS

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING, RECEIVES UPDATE ON ONGOING PROJECTS

Governor Dauda Lawal was presented with comprehensive updates on the status of various ongoing projects in Zamfara State.

The governor presided over the Zamfara State Executive meeting on Monday at the council chamber of the Government House in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Executive Council had sat for the sixteenth time since the inauguration of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.

According to him, the chairman of the council, Governor Lawal, received detailed reports on the progress, challenges encountered, and expected timelines for the completion of each project.

These updates covered various sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and law enforcement.

During his address to the council, Governor Lawal emphasised the core values of his administration’s rescue mission, which prioritises accountability and transparency.

“We have an enormous responsibility ahead of us as we embark on a rescue mission to set an example. Our mission is to rescue and rebuild Zamfara, as we don’t have any other place to call home.

“I have approved the immediate employment of 250 people for the Zamfara Road Traffic Agency (ZAROTA) to enhance ongoing road constructions as part of my administration’s urban renewal projects.

“I directed the commissioner for justice and attorney general to establish a tribunal to handle traffic offences and violations due to increasing road accidents.

“In addition, we are creating two truck parks in Gusau to manage heavy traffic caused by trailers.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 26, 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR HOSTS SWEDISH AMBASSADOR, DISCUSSES POTENTIAL COLLABORATIONS.

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR HOSTS SWEDISH AMBASSADOR, DISCUSSES POTENTIAL COLLABORATIONS

Governor Dauda Lawal expressed readiness to collaborate with Sweden across various sectors, including mining, agriculture, renewable energy, education, and healthcare in Zamfara.

Governor Lawal hosted the Swedish ambassador in Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, last week in his Abuja office.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the spokesperson of the Zamfara State Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Swedish Ambassador’s visit allowed both parties to engage in bilateral talks.

According to the statement, Governor Lawal has resolved to explore all possible ways to attract foreign investments and support from international partners.

“Last week, Governor Dauda Lawal hosted the Sweden Ambassador, Annika Hahn-Englund, in his Abuja office.

“The meeting aimed to create collaboration and partnership in critical areas of the economy, build long-term relationships, and implement transformative projects to benefit Zamfara State and its people.

“At the meeting, Governor Lawal assured the Swedish Ambassador of his administration’s readiness to promote collaboration and sustainable development across various sectors.

“Sweden has expressed interest in partnering with Zamfara State to build long-term relationships and implement transformative projects for the state’s people in Nigeria.”

Furthermore, the Ambassador pledged to offer Zamfara technical expertise in responsible mining practices, modern agricultural techniques, renewable energy infrastructure, and support in improving education and healthcare services.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 18, 2024