Empowerment – Zamfara State Government

Dec 10 2024

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OVER N4 BILLION NG-CARES CASH TRANSFERS TO 44,000 BENEFICIARIES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OVER N4 BILLION NG-CARES CASH TRANSFERS TO 44,000 BENEFICIARIES IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has launched a stimulus package distribution to support the most vulnerable individuals in Zamfara State.

The distribution is part of the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus program (NG-CARES) held at the Garba Nadama Hall, JB Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau.

The welfare scheme targeted 44,000 vulnerable individuals across 14 local government areas as part of the Zamfara state government’s empowerment initiative.

During the cash transfer’s flag-off, Governor Lawal announced that N4,964,000,000 would be distributed to selected vulnerable individuals as beneficiaries.

The governor emphasized that through active participation in the welfare programme, Zamfara State has made remarkable progress, with over 1.1 million beneficiaries recorded across the various cycles. “These achievements were made possible by our Community Development Agency, Fadama III Project, and the Ministry of Commerce, among others.

“The financial gains from this initiative were equally impressive, with earnings of about N64 billion across three cycles. This success is what earned our state recognition at the national level.

“I traversed the entire 14 Local Government Areas of the state for the launch of COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus under the auspices of FADAMA III between January and February 2024. We ensured that no community was left behind; that strenuous effort contributed significantly to qualifying our state for the World Bank’s outstanding recognition due to our dexterity in implementing the programme.”

Furthermore, Governor Lawal stressed that the cash transfer segment of the programme has four categories. “The first is the Labour-Intensive Public Workfare scheme, under which each beneficiary will receive N20,000 monthly over a period of one year.

“To ensure equity and gender sensitivity, 60% of this allocation is allocated to women, while the remaining 40% is for men.

“The women’s share will specifically target widows, divorcees, and volunteer hospital workers serving without pay.

“While the social register is in use, our revered traditional rulers will play an integral role in identifying deserving beneficiaries from their communities.

“The second category is the Social Transfers, in which N10,000 will be provided monthly for one year to each beneficiary in the category of the physically challenged individuals, the chronically ill, and the elderly.

“This support is intended to ease the burden on those facing formidable challenges daily and ensure they can live with relative dignity and comfort.

“The Livelihood Support Grant is a one-off payment of N150,000 targeted to small-scale business owners.

“Equal consideration has been given to men and women, with specific trades identified to cater to and improve their respective areas of expertise. From tailoring to food vending, this initiative intends to revitalize small businesses and create a ripple effect of economic growth across our communities.

“Similarly, the Grants to SMEs will provide a one-off payment of N50,000 to targeted groups, including Yan Agaji, female-headed households, and scholars from Makarantar Allo and Islamiya schools. This measure is designed to empower diverse segments of the population and strengthen the foundation of our local economy.”

The governor commended the NG-CARES Steering Committee and Implementation Units for their dedication and commitment to excellence.

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

ZITDA 0 Comments

Oct 18 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL PARDONS 31 INMATES, PROVIDES THEM WITH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL PARDONS 31 INMATES, PROVIDES THEM WITH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, released 31 inmates who are serving their term at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital.

On Friday, the governor visited the Gusau Medium Custodial Centre, where he signed to pardon the inmates in accordance with Nigeria’s constitution.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the decision was made after a careful investigation of the inmates’ records.

The statement added that the Constitution allows governors to reduce sentences and pardon inmates.

During his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said inmates convicted of various crimes were pardoned to encourage their transformation into law-abiding citizens.

“Today, I am exercising the power granted by Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to show mercy to inmates, which aims to alleviate imprisonment’s hardships and psychological distress.

“The decision was made after thoroughly examining the prisoners’ records, which confirmed their genuine remorse.

“Furthermore, I have approved a gift of N50,000 to each pardoned inmate to support their reintegration into society.

“This is an effort by my administration to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers, especially at this time when we are making arrests of suspected bandits and informants.”

After inspecting the facility, Governor Lawal promised to provide all necessary assistance for the Gusau Correctional Center.

Earlier, Dr. Umar Galadima, the Comptroller of Corrections, Zamfara Command, praised Governor Lawal for his visit and decision to grant mercy to inmates.

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

ZITDA 0 Comments

Oct 16 2024

GOV. LAWAL DONATES BUS TO ASSOCIATION OF ZAMFARA RETIRED PERMANENT SECRETARIES

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL DONATES BUS TO ASSOCIATION OF ZAMFARA RETIRED PERMANENT SECRETARIES

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has donated an 18-seater bus to the association of the Zamfara Retired Permanent Secretaries.

The governor presented the bus to the association’s leadership on Wednesday at the government house in Gusau.

At last year’s annual conference, Governor Lawal promised to provide a bus for the association to facilitate easier transportation during its activities.

“Alhamdulillah, I am fulfilling this promise to you today. I pray you make the most of the vehicle in your daily activities.

“My administration will continue to provide you with all necessary support. You served Zamfara State diligently, and now it’s time for the government to support your association.”

Receiving the bus on behalf of the association, former Zamfara State Head of Service, Alhaji Bello Karakkai, expressed gratitude to the governor for consistently keeping his promises.

“We are proud of this gesture and will make sure to publicize that you did something significant for our association.

“This is the first time a governor has listened to us since the creation of the state. We are exceedingly happy. May God bless you.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 16, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments

Aug 31 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR VISITS FLOOD-RAVAGED COMMUNITIES IN GUMMI LGA, DONATES N100 MILLION AND RELIEF ITEMS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR VISITS FLOOD-RAVAGED COMMUNITIES IN GUMMI LGA, DONATES N100 MILLION AND RELIEF ITEMS

On Saturday, Governor Dauda Lawal conducted an on-the-spot assessment of communities ravaged by flooding in the Gummi local government area of Zamfara State.

Heavy rainfall last week flooded some communities in the Gummi local government area, submerging many houses.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that Governor Lawal’s entourage began with a homage to the palace of the Emir of Gummi, His Royal Highness Justice Lawal Hassan.

According to the statement, the governor toured Gummi town to express sympathy with the flooding victims before proceeding to Gayari town to assess the extent of the damage.

Governor Lawal expressed deep concern after the assessment of the damage caused by the flooding. He mentioned that a team of engineers had already surveyed the areas to find a lasting solution.

“Today, I am in Gummi local government area to offer my condolences and conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the communities devastated by flooding caused by heavy rainfall last week.

“Immediately after I learned about the unfortunate incident, I sent two of my commissioners to visit and offer condolences to the affected communities.

“After the Deputy Governor’s visit, I dispatched a team of engineers to examine and evaluate the root causes of the flooding.

“It is important to note that I have instructed the immediate commencement of work to prevent such a situation.

“I want to take this opportunity to inform you that I have donated 10,000 bags of food, including rice, maize, and millet, to be distributed among the flood victims. The trucks are already on the way to Gummi for distribution.

“I am also, on behalf of the Zamfara State Government, supporting the affected victims with N100 million. In addition, all affected victims will be allocated lands away from the danger zone so that they can build new houses.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 31, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments

Jul 30 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

ZITDA 0 Comments

May 20 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

ZITDA 0 Comments

Mar 13 2024

RAMADAN BONUS: GOVERNOR LAWAL PAYS LEAVE GRANT TO ZAMFARA WORKERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the payment of a leave grant to the civil servants of Zamfara State as a Ramadan bonus.

On Wednesday, civil servants working for the state and local government in Zamfara began receiving their leave grant.

A statement issued in Gusau by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the worker’s leave grant is 10% of their annual salary.

According to him, the leave grant paid as a Ramadan Bonus is a welfare package given to all civil servants to mitigate the country’s current economic conditions.

The statement emphasized that Governor Lawal’s administration has been worker-friendly. “Upon assumption in office, Governor Lawal settled outstanding salaries owed by the previous government, paid the backlog of gratuities, and approved a 13th-month salary for the state’s workers.

“Due to the country’s current economic circumstances, Governor Lawal has decided to show gratitude for the hard work and commitment of the civil servants and political appointees. As a kind gesture, he has approved the payment of a leave grant to all workers.

“The governor has always been committed to civil servants’ welfare, ensuring they receive their salaries and bonuses on time. The payment of the leave grant is just another example of the governor’s concern for the well-being of the people of Zamfara State.

“The government has already disbursed payments for leave grants to state and local government workers and pensioners. Additionally, political appointees received a bonus to assist them during the holy month of Ramadan.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 13, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments

Mar 3 2024

ZAMFARA GOV’T VERIFIES 3079 RETIREES, SETTLES N2.3 BILLION BACKLOG OF GRATUITIES

Zamfara State Government has verified 3,079 retirees in an effort to pay the backlog of gratuities owed by previous administrations.

Retired state and local government workers in Zamfara State have not received their gratuities since 2011, which have accumulated over the years.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that a total of 1746 pensioners from both the state and local government received two tranches of payment amounting to N2,312,841,065.08.

The statement added that the second tranche of verified pensioners’ gratuity payments began last Friday, bringing relief to retirees who had been waiting for their entitlements for years.

“Tremendous progress has been made in verifying state and local government pensioners. Payment for the second tranche of verified pensioners’ gratuity commenced on Friday, March 1, 2024.

“A total of 413 verified pensioners from the state have been paid a sum of about NGN 682,228,647.38 (six hundred and eighty-two million, two hundred and twenty thousand, six hundred- and forty-seven-naira thirty-eight kobo only).

“Also, the payment of the second tranche of verified pensioners from Local Governments has commenced. A total of 403 verified pensioners from the Local Governments, amounting to N449,667,142.08 (four hundred and forty-nine million, six hundred and sixty-seven thousand, one hundred and forty-two naira and eight kobo only), have been paid.

“Out of the 3079 pensioners who have been verified, 1746 have received their gratuity payments in two tranches from both the state and local governments. The total amount paid so far is N2,312,841,065.08 (two billion, three hundred and twelve million, eight hundred and forty-one thousand, sixty-five naira and eight kobo only).

“The process of verifying and authenticating retirees is still ongoing, with payments being made to those who have been cleared.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
March 03, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments

Feb 10 2024

RESCUE MISSION: ZAMFARA GOVERNMENT BEGINS PAYMENT OF BACKLOG OF N13.4 BILLION GRATUITIES

Zamfara State Government has commenced the payment of the backlog of N13.4 billion in gratuities to retirees in the state.

The state government established a committee to authenticate retired civil servants’ data to pay off the gratuity debt accumulated from 2011 to date.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that retirees who have been owed gratuities since 2011 have finally started receiving their payments.

The statement added that the backlog of gratuities accumulated over the years is now being cleared, and payment has commenced since Thursday.

“The state government has taken a significant step towards addressing the outstanding debt of gratuity owed to retirees, which comprises death gratuities, retirement gratuities, and contract gratuities.

“Governor Dauda Lawal set up a committee to validate and authenticate retiree data to settle the debt of gratuities that has accumulated since 2011.

“After validating the data of retired civil servants, the government discovered that the total amount owed from state and local governments is 13.4 billion Naira.

“The committee has already gone far with the authentication of data submitted by local government and state pension commission and physical verification of beneficiaries.

“Retired state and local government employees who were verified have begun receiving their gratuity payments since Thursday.

“The government would ensure that all retirees are authenticated and paid their gratuities without any difficulties.

“The Zamfara State Government is fulfilling its promise to serve the people of Zamfara by rescuing and rebuilding the state for the better.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 10, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments

Feb 7 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL DISTRIBUTES FARM INPUTS TO FARMERS IN ANKA LGA, PROMISES A RENAISSANCE IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed optimism that Zamfara State would experience a renaissance in agricultural production, as the state government is committed to providing necessary support to farmers across the state.

The Governor kicked off the distribution of agricultural assets in Anka local government area in continuation of the flag-off ceremony for the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus under the auspices of FADAMA III on Tuesday.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the distribution in Anka marked the end of Governor Lawal’s statewide tour for the flag-off of the post-COVID-19 Agricultural Recovery Initiative.

He added that the Governor has covered all 14 local government areas since the groundbreaking flag-off in the state capital, Gusau, in January.

Speaking at the flag-off in Anka LGA, Governor Lawal restated that the distribution across local government areas aims to support farmers to boost agricultural production.

He said: “Since the groundbreaking flag-off in Gusau on 3rd January, we have embarked on a statewide tour to enhance public awareness regarding the stimulus being rolled out.

“This initiative encourages beneficiaries to utilise the stimulus judiciously, achieving the set objectives. The distribution of the stimulus package represents a critical step in our efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The distribution of farm inputs to farmers in Anka LGA is part of the state government’s larger plan to transform the agricultural sector and position Zamfara State as a major agricultural hub in Nigeria.

“My government is trying to provide farmers access to modern farming techniques, inputs, and markets, enabling them to compete and improve their productivity effectively.

The governor highlighted additional projects planned for Anka local government area under the 2024 budget of my administration.

“The projects include rehabilitation and construction of new structures at General Hospital, Anka, construction of 126 Kilometer Magami Dangulbi-Dankurmi-Bagega-Anka road, construction of a Zonal Youth Centre, renovation of Remand Home, Anka, construction of Zonal Education Office, construction of Women Continuing Education Centre, construction of Emir’s palace, a host of other projects.”

During the ceremony, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad, the chairman of the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs and Emir of Anka, presented Governor Dauda Lawal with a letter conferring him with the title of ‘Gamjin Zamfara’.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 07, 2024

ZITDA 0 Comments