Empowerment – Zamfara State Government

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Feb 6 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMISSIONS ROAD CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION OF GENERAL HOSPITAL IN BUKKUYUM LGA, DISTRIBUTES FARM INPUTS TO FARMERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has flagged off the construction of a road project and reconstruction of the General Hospital in Bukkuyum local government.

The governor was in Bukkuyum LGA on Tuesday to distribute agricultural assets and vital farm inputs to farmers for the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus under the auspices of FADAMA III.

A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the road construction starting from Mallawama junction will cover 13.4 kilometres in the Bukkuyum local government area.

He added that the General Hospital at Nasarawa Burkullu in the Bukkuyum Local Government Area will undergo significant renovation and upgrades to improve healthcare services.

In his speech at the flag-off, Governor Dauda Lawal disclosed that the 19.2 km road construction would cover the Mallamawa-Zarummai-Bukkuyum and Bukkuyum-Birnin Zauma-Gummi Road.

“On behalf of the state government, I am pleased to commission this road project. This project fulfils our campaign promises to the people of Zamfara, and I am committed to delivering on them.

“Our goal is to bring all the dividends of democracy to the people of Zamfara, and this project is just one of the many ways we plan to improve their lives.

“We have already mobilised the contractors to start work, and we are confident that this commissioning will result in tremendous changes for the people of Bukkuyum.

“I urge everyone to give the contractors maximum cooperation in discharging their duty.”

During the flag-off of the distribution of agricultural assets in the Bukkuyum LGA, Governor Dauda Lawal called on beneficiaries of the farm inputs to make the best use of the opportunity to improve their production and uplift their living conditions.

“The distribution of the stimulus package signifies a crucial step in our endeavours to counter the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“By going around selected local government areas across the state’s three senatorial zones, we intend to enhance awareness concerning the stimulus being rolled out to encourage beneficiaries to use it judiciously.

“This component of the COVID-19 stimulus programme is centrally focused on agriculture, acknowledging its pivotal role in the state’s economy, which is predominantly agrarian. Over 80% of the population is engaged in one form of agricultural production. Under this stimulus package, over 100,000 farmers across the 14 Local Government Areas would be empowered with essential farming equipment and seeds over the coming four years.”

Flagging off the renovation and upgrade of the General Hospital Nasarawa Burkullu, Governor Lawal restated that the hospital would also be well-equipped with medical facilities.

“The renovation will involve refurbishing existing facilities, constructing new buildings, and installing state-of-the-art medical equipment. These upgrades will improve the hospital’s capacity to handle more patients and enhance its ability to provide specialised medical procedures.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 06, 2024

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Feb 5 2024

GOVERNOR LAWAL LAUNCHES DISTRIBUTION OF FARM INPUTS IN BAKURA, MAFARA AND MARADUN LGAs, SAYS ZAMARA ECONOMY PREDOMINANTLY AGRARIAN

Governor Dauda Lawal has emphasised the importance of agriculture to Zamfara State’s economy, noting that it is predominantly agrarian.

On Monday, Governor Lawal launched the distribution of agricultural assets in three local government areas – Bakura, Mafara and Maradun in continuation of the flag-off ceremony for the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus under the auspices of FADAMA III.

A statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said Governor Lawal charged farmers in the state to take advantage of the opportunity to increase their yields and contribute to the development of the state.

He added that the distributed farm inputs include fertilisers, improved seedlings, and other farm implements.

During the launch in Bakura LGA, Governor Lawal assured farmers of the state government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector to ensure its growth and development.

“Besides distributing farm inputs, my government will execute several projects in Bakura LGA. These projects include the construction of additional structures at the College of Agriculture and Animal Science Bakura, the renovation of the General Hospital, Bakura, the rehabilitation of the Government Science Secondary School, the rehabilitation of Government Secondary School, Yarkofoji, the rehabilitation of Bakura Orchard, the construction of a magistrate court, Bakura, the construction of Emir’s Palace and a host of other projects, Insha’Allah.

At the launching ceremony in Mafara LGA, Governor Lawal said the stimulus package will significantly enhance farmers’ productivity in Talata Mafara LGA.

“I want to call on the beneficiaries of this stimulus to make reasonable use of it. We have other projects for the people of Talata Mafara LGA.

“My government will execute projects at Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara, Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, construction of a Rapid Response Centre, a Fish Pond for fish farming demonstration, rehabilitation and construction of additional structures at the General Hospital, Talata Mafara, construction of a Zonal Education Office, provision of Residential Building for Appeal Court’s Khadis, Talata Mafara Division, construction of a Zonal Youth Centre, construction of Women Continued Education Centre, Talata Mafara, rehabilitation of Government Secondary School, Agwaragi, Talata Mafara, rehabilitation and expansion of Veterinary Clinic, upgrade of Talata Mafara water plant, and a host of other projects, Insha’Allah.”

In Maradun LGA, the Zamfara State Governor emphasised that the state’s economy largely depends on agriculture. As a result, the COVID-19 stimulus programme exclusively focuses on supporting the agricultural sector.

“I hope that this stimulus will go a long way in improving the productive capacity of the farmers in Maradun LGA and the entire Zamfara State.

“Maradun Local Government, like other parts of the state, will benefit from several projects in the 2024 budget. These projects include the rehabilitation of the Government Secondary School in Gora, the upgrading of Maradun General Hospital, the construction of Maradun-Makera and Maradun-Magami-Faru roads, and the construction of offices for mobile squadrons, a magistrate court, and residential buildings for judges. There are also other projects planned, Insha’Allah.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 05, 2024

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Feb 4 2024

FOOD SECURITY: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR LAUNCHES DISTRIBUTION OF AGRICULTURAL ASSETS IN B/MAGAJI, ZURMI, AND K/NAMODA LGAs

On Sunday, Governor Dauda Lawal launched the distribution of agricultural assets and vital farm inputs to farmers in Birnin Magaji, Zurmi, and Kauran Namoda local government areas of Zamfara state.

The ceremony marked the continuation of the distribution of agricultural assets under the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus program in Zamfara State as part of FADAMA III.

A statement issued by the spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said over 80% of Zamfara’s population is involved in some form of agriculture.

He added that under the stimulus package, over 100,000 farmers across the 14 Local Government Areas would be empowered with essential farming equipment and seeds over the coming four years.

In line with his commitment to ensuring food security across Zamfara, Governor Dauda Lawal distributed vital agricultural assets to farmers in Birnin Magaji, Zurmi, and Kauran Namoda local government areas.

During the Flagg off in Birnin Magaji LGA, Governor Lawal reiterated that his administration aims to raise awareness about the stimulus package being rolled out in selected local government areas across the state’s three senatorial zones. “The goal is to encourage beneficiaries to use the stimulus wisely, achieving the set objectives. This stimulus will significantly boost the productivity of farmers in Birnin Magaji LGA.

“Other important projects of my administration in Birnin Magaji LGA include the ongoing total renovation and furnishing of GSS Birnin Magaji, the construction of a road from Gidan Bita-Maikosa Mallankara-Dandogo-Gamo-Naniya-Kukoki Kwacho- Birnin Magaji road, the construction of Dakitakwas- Birnin Magaji road, and a host of other projects, Insha’Allah.”

In Zurmi LGA, the governor urged the beneficiaries of the stimulus package to use the opportunity wisely, enhance their production, and improve their standard of living.

“Apart from the distribution of farm inputs, Zurmi Local Government will benefit from several projects under the 2024 budget. These projects include the ongoing renovation and furnishing/equipping of GGDSS Zurmi, the general renovation of General Hospital Zurmi, the construction of the Zurmi-Rukudawa Road, the renovation of the magistrate court, and a host of other projects, Insha’Allah.

“I would like to use this opportunity to call on all the people of Zurmi Local Government Area to extend maximum support and cooperation to the Community Protection Guards (Askarawan Zamfara) to secure our communities.

While flagging off the distribution in Kauran Namoda LGA, Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated that under his stewardship as your governor, Zamfara State will witness a renaissance in agricultural production and other sectors of our economy.

“With the recent inauguration of the Askarawa, in addition to the numerous other measures we have implemented to improve the security situation across the state, I hope that farmers who have been unable to access their farms due to threats from bandits can now do so.

“Other projects of my government in Kauran Namoda LGA include the ongoing renovation and furnishing and equipping of General Hospital Kaura Namoda, the construction of buildings for the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, Kaura Namoda, the construction of a Zonal Youth Centre and the completion of a Remand Home, the construction of the Zonal Education Office, the construction of Women Continued Education Centre, Kaura Namoda, construction of additional structures at the General Hospital, construction of Emirs Palace, and a host of other projects, Insha’Allah.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 04, 2024

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Feb 2 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR DISTRIBUTES AGRICULTURAL ASSETS TO FARMERS IN BUNGUDU AND MARU LGAS

Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed farm inputs and agricultural assets to the farmers of Bungudu and Maru local government areas of Zamfara State.

The flag-off in Bungudu and Maru, Local Government areas, was part of the ongoing COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus distribution program sponsored by FADAMA III.

A statement issued by the spokesperson of Zamfara governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the distribution began on January 3rd in the capital city, Gusau.

He added that Governor Lawal went to Shinkafi, Gummi, and Tsafe for the same flag-off of the distribution to farmers.

“Today, the Governor was in Bungudu and Maru local government areas to distribute the vital agricultural assets and inputs to farmers.

In Bungudu LGA, Governor Lawal said the Local Government Area is legendary for farming, and its contribution to the GDP of Zamfara State is commendable. “With the flag-off of this program in this Local Government Area today, we are bringing tremendous opportunities for the farming communities in this industrious Local Government Area.

“I am confident that this program will go a long way to boosting our farmers’ productivity, thereby alleviating rural poverty and its associated challenges.

“Building on this momentum, we plan to introduce similar intervention projects, such as the integrated entrepreneurship program. This program will encompass various agro-allied projects, including fisheries, poultry, and livestock fattening.

“Additionally, it will provide training and starter packs to small-scale businesses in various sectors, contributing significantly to our economic diversification efforts.

In Maru LGA, the governor restated that the distribution would combat malaria through innovative methods like rearing tilapia fish while generating substantial income for the beneficiaries through various interventions, as this undoubtedly improves the quality of livelihood.

“In line with our commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity in Maru Local Government Area, my administration will be embarking upon the rehabilitation of Earth dams, and provision for this has been made in the 2024 budget. This initiative will provide employment opportunities for over 40,000 farmers and play a crucial role in feeding more than 2 million people annually.”

During the flag-off, over 2,000 farmers benefited in both Bungudu and Maru local government areas.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
February 02, 2024

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Jan 9 2024

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR DISTRIBUTES AGRICULTURAL ASSETS TO FARMERS IN TSAFE LGA

Governor Dauda Lawal has extended the distribution of agricultural assets and vital farm inputs to Zamfara farmers in the Tsafe local government area.

The distribution ceremony was held on Monday at the Tsafe Local Government Secretariat as part of the ongoing COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus distribution program sponsored by FADAMA III.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Zamfara state government has made provisions in the 2024 budget to rehabilitate nine Earth Dams in Tsafe local government area.

According to him, while leading the distribution of agricultural assets, Governor Lawal reiterated his commitment to providing employment opportunities for over 40,000 farmers in the local government.

During his speech, the governor emphasised that the Yanwaren Daji Dam would be crucial in feeding over 2 million people yearly. “The dam’s well-planned drainage system will ensure that clean water is available to the entire Tsafe Local Government Area.

“Agriculture, which accounts for over 70% of our GDP, remains the backbone of our economy. In recognition of this, our program is poised to empower 100,000 farmers across the 14 Local Government Areas with essential farming equipment and seeds over the coming four years.

“Tsafe Local Government Area is legendary for farming and its massive contribution to the GDP of Zamfara State. With the flag-off of this program in this Local Government Area today, we are bringing tremendous opportunities for the farming communities in this industrious Local Government Area. I am confident that this program will go a long way to boosting our farmers’ productivity, thereby alleviating rural poverty and its associated challenges.

“Building on this momentum, we plan to introduce similar intervention projects, such as the integrated entrepreneurship program in Magazu Town. This program will encompass various agro-allied projects, including fisheries, poultry, and livestock fattening. Additionally, it will provide training and starter packs to small-scale businesses in multiple sectors, contributing significantly to our economic diversification efforts.

“Moreover, the project will help combat malaria through innovative methods like rearing tilapia fish while generating substantial income for the beneficiaries through various interventions.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) to the Zamfara Governor
January 09, 2024

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