Search for:
May 7 2025
ZAMFARA GOVERNMENT PARTNERS WITH ORACLE TO BOOST DIGITAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN LONDON

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNMENT PARTNERS WITH ORACLE TO BOOST DIGITAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN LONDON

The Zamfara State Government has signed an Agreement with Oracle to invest in youth development, workforce capacity building, and the digital economy under Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative (SDI).

The Agreement was signed on Tuesday April 29, 2025 at Oracle’s Offices in London, United Kingdom.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that this work will foster collaboration between the Zamfara Information and Technology Development Agency (ZITDA) and Oracle.

The Zamfara State delegation, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, includes the Secretary to the State Government, two Special Advisers, and the Executive Secretary of ZITDA were present for the event, along with Siobhan Wilson, Oracle UK Country Leader and Senior Vice President, EMEA.

The statement read in parts: “Zamfara State Government has signed a strategic agreement with Oracle to drive digital skills development across the state. Facilitated through the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), the collaboration will use the expertise and learning services of both Oracle Academy and Oracle University in their digital transformation efforts.

“The collaboration signifies a commitment to education and a strategic investment in the future of Zamfara’s youth, workforce, and digital economy.
“Oracle Academy, Oracle’s global philanthropic educational program, offers a robust portfolio of technology education teaching and learning resources, including curriculum and software access, to educators and students worldwide.

“With the support of the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), these resources will be made available to validated higher education institutions across Zamfara.”

“ZITDA will help lead efforts to integrate Oracle Academy offerings into Zamfara’s higher education curriculum, equipping educators with the tools and resources they need to guide students in learning hands-on tech skills and toward Oracle professional certifications and foster a new generation of tech-savvy leaders.

“In addition, Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative (SDI), a global program that provides access to world-class learning and certification programs at no cost to eligible learners, will further expand opportunities for learners in Zamfara.

“Through a co-branded Learning Portal in collaboration with ZITDA, Oracle University plans to provide free access to digital learning paths and foundational certifications for eligible participants across Zamfara. This includes curated learning journeys offering over 200 hours of professional-level training in high-demand areas such as Cloud, AI, Data Science and APEX development.”

Trademarks
“Oracle, Java, MySQL and NetSuite are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. NetSuite was the first cloud company—ushering in the new era of cloud computing.”

In his remarks at the landmark signing of the agreement, Governor Dauda Lawal restated that the collaboration with Oracle is part of his administration’s commitment to transforming Zamfara into a hub of innovation, education, and digital excellence.

He said, “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Zamfara State, I extend my deepest appreciation to Oracle for believing in our vision and for partnering with us on this transformative journey.”

“What we are doing today goes beyond technology — it is about giving hope, creating opportunities, and unlocking the future. By investing in digital education and innovation, we are offering real alternatives to poverty, to joblessness, and to despair.”

“I sincerely thank Oracle for standing with us — believing in the power of partnership, purpose, and shared dreams. Today, we are not just signing a document; we are making a promise: “A promise that every child in Zamfara will have a fair chance to dream, to learn, and to succeed. A promise that technology will be our bridge to a stronger, more inclusive economy. And a promise that Zamfara will not merely participate in the digital revolution — we will lead it.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor 
May 07, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments
Apr 23 2025
UNDP COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T SETS PACE FOR OTHER STATES ON COUNTERPART FUNDING

PRESS STATEMENT

UNDP COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T SETS PACE FOR OTHER STATES ON COUNTERPART FUNDING

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has praised Governor Dauda Lawal for his commitment to providing counterpart funding to benefit the people of Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the UNDP launched the Northwest Prevention Facility Project at the Garba Nadama Hall in the State Secretariat, Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the project includes distributing irrigation equipment to 300 farmers carefully selected based on their needs.

The statement added that 1,000 entrepreneurs will receive a start-up capital of N150,000 each, aiming to transform their business ideas into thriving enterprises across Zamfara State.

In his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal restated that upon his assumption of office, his administration initiated several empowerment programs and created opportunities to achieve his rescue mission agenda.

“These initiatives are not isolated efforts. Part of our broader vision for a prosperous Zamfara State is to engage development partners to address our numerous socio-economic challenges.

“Many poverty reduction programmes introduced by this administration have impacted the lives of thousands of our citizens. Our administration’s commitment to poverty alleviation is unwavering. We shall continue leveraging strategic partnerships with the UNDP and other donor groups to create sustainable pathways to lift our people out of poverty.

“From the inception of this program, I made it clear that a transparent and inclusive selection process shall be the yardstick of choice of beneficiaries. The beneficiaries, therefore, were drawn from towns and villages such as Sankalawa, Furfuri, Karal, Gusau, and Bungudu.

“I have consistently emphasized that economic empowerment must be inclusive under our purview, leaving no community behind. That is why I insisted on the equitable distribution of opportunities across all local government areas.

“Equally, comprehensive training programmes were held for all beneficiaries of Irrigation farming and SMEs. We firmly believe that providing resources without knowledge could limit the sustainable impact the programme aims to achieve.”

Governor Lawal further extended gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme for believing in his administration’s shared vision for development. “To the beneficiaries, I charge you to utilize these resources responsibly. The faith I have placed in you must be justified.

“With these remarks, it is my honour to officially flag off the distribution of irrigation inputs to 300 beneficiaries and disbursement of start-up capital of N150,000.00 to 1,000 entrepreneurs.”

Earlier, the Head of the Office of UNDP Northwest Nigeria, Ashraf Usman, expressed that the effectiveness, desire, and determination of the Zamfara State Government are evident to all, which is crucial for the partnership.

“Thank you, Your Excellency. These are the reasons why we are here. Congratulations to you for supporting such a large number of people. Thank you for sitting idly and setting an example for other state governments in providing counterparts funding. Thank you for your leadership.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 23, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments
Jan 31 2025
ZITDA hosted the Women Techmakers community for the ‘Experience AI Workshop,’ highlighting our commitment to gender inclusivity in technology.

ZITDA hosted the Women Techmakers community for the ‘Experience AI Workshop,’ highlighting our commitment to gender inclusivity in technology.

The event provided women with hands-on AI training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, helping bridge the gender gap in the tech industry.

This initiative is part of ZITDA’s broader efforts to support women’s participation in technology, ensuring a more inclusive and innovative digital future.

31 Jan 2025

WeMeanBusiness

ZITDA 0 Comments
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
Copyright © 2025 Zamfara State Government | Developed by ZITDA