GOVERNMENT – Zamfara State Government

Sep 9 2025

IATF 2025: ZAMFARA IS OPEN FOR INVESTMENT, GOV. LAWAL TELLS GLOBAL INVESTORS

PRESS STATEMENT

IATF 2025: ZAMFARA IS OPEN FOR INVESTMENT, GOV. LAWAL TELLS GLOBAL INVESTORS

Governor Dauda Lawal has assured global investors that Zamfara State is open for investments.

The governor and other panelists participated in the fifth African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) conference held last Saturday in Algiers, Algeria.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that the panel includes the governors of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, and Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, of Bungoma County, Kenya, among others.

The high-level panel discussed investment opportunities in Nigeria’s Ogun and Zamfara states and Kenya’s Bungoma County.

In his address to global investors, Governor Lawal emphasized that his administration is committed to transforming Zamfara’s narrative from one of challenges to one of significant opportunities and resilience.

“My administration is dedicated to creating a secure, profitable, and sustainable environment for investment. I am here today as a partner, ready to collaborate with you to unlock our shared prosperity.

“To address the concerns raised, we seek partnerships in key areas to effectively implement our investment initiatives.

“We need financiers, such as Afreximbank, to provide and facilitate tools like credit guarantees, political risk insurance, and currency swap facilities. These instruments are essential for mitigating perceived risks while attracting capital for large-scale infrastructure and mining projects.

“We welcome institutional support for capacity building within our state agencies, particularly in modernizing our land registry, training our investment promotion team on global best practices, preparing projects, and implementing digital systems for transparent and efficient permit processing.”

Governor Lawal further said that beyond Zamfara’s gold deposits, the state is rich in vast, untapped resources, including copper, lithium, tantalite, and granite.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 09, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

Aug 22 2025

GOV. LAWAL HOSTS PDP GOVERNORS FOR STRATEGIC MEETING IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL HOSTS PDP GOVERNORS FOR STRATEGIC MEETING IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal is hosting the governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for a strategic meeting in Zamfara State.

The governors are expected to arrive in Gusau this evening, ahead of the meeting scheduled for Saturday.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the PDP Governors meet in Zamfara to discuss key political strategies as they navigate the current political landscape.

“Governor Dauda Lawal extends a warm welcome to his counterparts, the governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State.

“The governors are convening today for an important meeting of the PDP Governors Forum.

“Governor Lawal will host a dinner for the governors tonight, before the closed-door meeting scheduled for tomorrow.

“This meeting will provide party leaders with the opportunity to discuss pressing political issues, plan for party unity, and collaborate on developmental initiatives within their respective states.

“Additionally, the governors will address key concerns in preparation for the national convention organized by the National Executive Committee (NEC) in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 22, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

Jul 10 2025

GOV. LAWAL COMMENCES ZAMFARA SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAMME, AIMS TO LOWER OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN RATE

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL COMMENCES ZAMFARA SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAM, AIMS TO LOWER OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN RATE

Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to addressing the issue of the growing number of out-of-school children in Zamfara State.

The governor launched the Zamfara State Pilot School Feeding Program on Thursday at Dan-turai Primary School in Gusau, the state capital.

According to a statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the school feeding program is designed to enhance pupils’ access to education, improve enrolment and retention, and support their completion and transition to higher levels of learning.

In his address, Governor Lawal stated that the flag-off signifies his administration’s strong commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to implement various strategies to increase school enrollment in Zamfara State.

He said, “Our commitment to reform includes initiatives to combat sector decay and foster partnerships, such as with the World Bank through the AGILE programme and with UNICEF. Recently, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, in collaboration with UNICEF, formed a Technical Committee of agency heads and stakeholders to visit 14 Local Governments, identify out-of-school children, and facilitate their reintegration into schools.”

“The school feeding program, which we are flagging off today, is part of the emergency response initiatives to promote enrollment and retention of pupils in schools while fighting hunger and malnutrition. This is in addition to our engagement efforts with two other NGOs, the International Center for Economic Development and FINPACT Development Foundation, which have agreed to support the state in implementing a pilot program to serve as a learning ground for program implementers and the State government.”

“In more specific terms, FINPACT Development Foundation will sponsor the feeding of 1000 pupils in Gusau, Maru, Anka, and Talatar Mafara, while the International Center for Economic Development is sponsoring the feeding of 3300 across Gusau, Talatar Mafara, and Shinkafi.”

“I charge all relevant stakeholders and other donor agencies to explore more ways of providing more activities and programmes. This will not only enhance our commitment to the provision of quality and inclusive education, but it will reduce to the barest minimum the menace of out-of-school children, so that together we can make our State a shining example.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 10, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

Jul 2 2025

REA STRATEGIC ROUNDTABLE: ZAMFARA IS A PRIME LOCATION FOR SOLAR FARMS, SAYS GOV. LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

REA STRATEGIC ROUNDTABLE: ZAMFARA IS A PRIME LOCATION FOR SOLAR FARMS, SAYS GOV. LAWAL

Governor Dauda Lawal highlighted that Zamfara State benefits from intense sunlight throughout the year, positioning it as an ideal site for solar farms, mini-grids, and autonomous power systems.

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) held its Zamfara State strategic roundtable in Abuja on Wednesday, bringing together energy sector stakeholders as part of its continued state-by-state strategic meetings.

A statement by the Zamfara State Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the roundtable focused on revitalizing the Zamfara electricity sector to promote social justice, strategic development, and innovation via renewable energy.

The statement noted that during the event, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Zamfara State Government and the Rural Electrification Agency, followed by stakeholder discussions, questions and answers, feedback, and commitments.

In his address, Governor Lawal said he inherited a government gripped by widespread energy poverty.

He said, “Many Local Government Areas were disconnected from the national grid. Public utilities were decayed, vandalized, or non-functional. Critical infrastructure had collapsed under years of neglect, and our industrial and commercial centers were crippled by unreliable power supply.

“However, we chose not to wallow in the blame game. Instead, we intentionally responded to the challenges we met with strategic vision, unwavering resolve, and decisive action.”

“Since then, our administration has embarked on a mission to rewrite that narrative by placing energy access at the heart of our development strategy. We launched one of the country’s most ambitious State-led transformer deployment programs, installing more than 150 units across urban and rural communities.”

“In collaboration with Kaduna Electric, we restored power to six local government areas and are reconnecting seven more, some of which have been without power for over a decade. These efforts are part of a plan to expand access, stimulate enterprise, and unlock private sector investment.”

Governor Lawal said Zamfara offers compelling advantages for renewable energy investment. “We are blessed with high-intensity year-round sunlight, making us a prime location for solar farms, mini-grids, and standalone systems.

“Coupled with this is the immense potential of the Bakalori Dam, a largely untapped hydropower asset with an irrigation command area of over 30,000 hectares. This synergy of solar and hydro presents an opportunity to deploy hybrid energy solutions that can sustainably power semi-urban and rural clusters.”

“Our agricultural sector is another strong anchor. Zamfara is consistently ranked among Nigeria’s top millet, sorghum, soybeans, and groundnuts producers. We are repositioning this sector through improved inputs, mechanized systems, and irrigation rehabilitation.”

“Yet, what is lacking—and what renewable energy can provide—is the critical power infrastructure needed for agro-processing, cold-chain storage, and value addition at the source. Energy is the missing link that can transform our agrarian communities into engines of rural industrialization.”

“Our infrastructure renewal is exemplified by the nearly complete Gusau International and Cargo Airport, envisioned as a gateway for passengers, trade, logistics, and investments.”

“To realize our green vision, we aim for this facility to be Nigeria’s first airport powered by at least 50% renewable energy, offering RESCOs a chance to lead in sustainable aviation.”

Earlier, the Managing Director of the REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, assured Governor Lawal of the agency’s commitment to deploying electricity infrastructure in Zamfara State.

“For the first time in the history of Nigeria, mapping the entire country has been done, and it shows the number and location of the people who do not have electricity. The nature of their community and their electricity demand. This helps the RESCOs, the finances, and the state government develop a strategy for channeling efforts to ensure that these people have electricity.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 02, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

Jun 18 2025

ZAMFARA BECOMES FIRST STATE TO LAUNCH DIGITAL LITERACY FRAMEWORK

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA BECOMES FIRST STATE TO LAUNCH A DIGITAL LITERACY FRAMEWORK

Zamfara State is the first in Nigeria to adopt a Digital Literacy Framework (ZDLF) to equip its people with essential digital skills for inclusive economic growth, e-governance, and innovation.

The high-level Stakeholder Engagement on the Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework was held on Wednesday at the Garba Nadama Hall, JB Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the stakeholder engagement brought together key federal institutions, development partners, lawmakers, academia, and private sector actors to review and enrich the draft framework.

In his keynote address, Governor Lawal described the framework as a bold roadmap to a digitally inclusive future and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to seeing its full implementation.

He said, “Today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey to redefine the developmental pathway of Zamfara State through digital empowerment, innovation, and inclusive access to information and communication technology.”

“The Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework is a practical and strategic response to a long-standing need to equip our people with the capacity to function and grow in an increasingly digital world.”

“As we all know, digital literacy has become essential for productivity, job creation, quality service delivery, and national relevance. We cannot afford to watch our State remain on the margins of a technology-driven global order.”

“This framework aims to institutionalize digital learning and ICT integration across education, public service, and commerce sectors. It envisions a State where every student is digitally competent, every civil servant has essential digital skills for governance, and entrepreneurs and local traders are equipped to expand their businesses and access larger markets. We have begun to turn this vision into action.”

“Zamfara State partnered with Oracle Corporation to train 3,000 youth in Cloud 2 Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Database Management. With Oracle Academy, our tertiary institutions gain support to produce graduates who are industry-relevant.”

“Work has started on the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology (ZIIT) in Gusau. This institute will be a regional center of excellence, offering hands-on ICT education and fostering homegrown innovation. We aim to bridge the digital divide and position Zamfara as the emerging ICT center of Northern Nigeria.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government, Mallam Abubakar Nakwada, expressed the state’s commitment to positioning Zamfara as a leader in digital transformation in Northern Nigeria.

Delivering a goodwill message, Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis (senator representing Zamfara Central), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications and Digital Economy, commended Zamfara for taking the lead when national development hinges on digital inclusion. The Senator donated 300 computers to ZITDA to support its digital transformation drive across MDA’s.

In an overview of the Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework (ZDLF), Dr. Habib Gajam, Executive Secretary of the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), characterized the framework as a strategic and people-centered document organized around four primary outcomes.

Key federal digital institutions represented at the stakeholder engagement include the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Galaxy Backbone, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigerian Communications Satellite, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 18, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

May 13 2025

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES DEBIT CARDS TO OVER 400,000 ZAMFARA BENEFICIARIES OF CASH TRANSFER

PRESS STATEMENT

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES DEBIT CARDS TO OVER 400,000 ZAMFARA BENEFICIARIES OF CASH TRANSFER

Governor Dauda Lawal has flagged off the distribution of debit cards for the beneficiaries of the World Bank-financed Cash Transfer Scheme.

The official launch ceremony was held on Monday at the Tsafe local government secretariat.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the initiative is designed to provide each beneficiary with N75,000.00 in financial support.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated that the ceremony represents a significant moment in his commitment to empowering the most vulnerable people of Zamfara.

“It is therefore with a lot of pleasure that I stand before you as we flag off this all-important programme.

“Distinguished personalities, guests, this initiative is designed to provide financial support of N75,000.00 each to 448,141 beneficiaries.

“As stated by Honourable Commissioner Kainuwa earlier, out of that expected number, 279,534 beneficiaries have met the minimum requirement to receive N75,000 each. The remaining beneficiaries will be processed and benefit as soon as they are cleared in sha Allah.

“To the beneficiaries of this programme, I would like to remind and caution you not to use this intervention only for the usual domestic needs. This empowerment aims to enable you to invest in your future to support yourselves and your families and contribute to the growth of our local and national economy.

“I urge you all to use this opportunity wisely, invest in entrepreneurship, and become self-reliant.”

The governor thanked the Federal Government, partners, and stakeholders, especially the National Cash Transfer Office, for their dedication and significant contributions to the program.

“Let me take this opportunity to assure you all that our administration will continue to partner with any individual or organization for the betterment and development of our dear state.

“With these few, it is my honor to flag off hereby the distribution and activation of the debit cards to facilitate the Conditional Cash Transfer payments to the deserving beneficiaries.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 13, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

May 8 2025

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES 2025 HAJJ COMMITTEE, EMPHASIZES ON WELL-BEING OF ZAMFARA PILGRIMS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL INAUGURATES 2025 HAJJ COMMITTEE, EMPHASIZES ON WELL-BEING OF ZAMFARA PILGRIMS

Governor Dauda Lawal tasked the 2025 Amirul Hajj Committee with ensuring the general well-being of Zamfara pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.

The 2025 Zamfara State Amirul Hajj Committee was inaugurated on Wednesday at the council chamber of the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that His Royal Highness, Alhaji Garba Muhammad Tambari, the Emir of Maradun, will serve as the 2025 Amirul Hajj and chairman of the committee.

The committee also includes Hon. Sulaiman Adamu Gummi, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, who serves as Vice Chairman, and Alhaji Habibu Balarabe, the Executive Secretary of the Zakat Board, as secretary.

While inaugurating the committee, Governor Lawal remarked that the team is expected to ensure a successful Hajj operation and the welfare, safety, and comfort of the Zamfara State pilgrims.

“The Zamfara State Government, on behalf of our people, has placed great confidence in you to ensure that every aspect of the 2025 Hajj operation is executed with excellence, dignity, and sincerity.

“I urge you to maintain a strong working relationship with the Zamfara State Hajj Commission, relevant Federal agencies, and our Saudi partners to ensure smooth coordination and real-time problem-solving. You must embrace openness, accountability, and compassion in all your dealings, knowing fully that the lives and spiritual journeys of hundreds of our citizens are in your care.

“The State Government will, In-sha-Allah, provide all the necessary support to ensure your mandate’s discharge effectively. We expect timely progress reports and, at the end of the exercise, a comprehensive report that captures achievements, challenges, and policy recommendations for future pilgrimages.

“You are ambassadors of the Government of Zamfara State and our culture, values, and religious integrity on the global stage. Therefore, I urge you to exemplify the virtues of humility, patience, discipline, and devotion throughout the exercise. Let your conduct be a shining example for others to emulate.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 08, 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) 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 part of a larger strategy to build a prosperous Zamfara State by actively engaging development partners in tackling our wide-ranging socio-economic challenges.”

“Numerous poverty reduction initiatives launched by this administration have positively impacted the lives of thousands of our citizens. Our commitment to alleviating poverty remains steadfast. We will continue to strengthen strategic partnerships with the UNDP and other donor organizations to develop sustainable solutions that empower our people and lift them 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. As a result, the beneficiaries were selected from various towns and villages, including 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 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

Apr 13 2025

NIGERIAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS GOV. LAWAL FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

NIGERIAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS GOV. LAWAL FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN ZAMFARA STATE.

Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the prestigious Leadership and Community Service Award by the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) in recognition of his exemplary leadership.

On Saturday, the chamber celebrated its 65th anniversary, inaugurated its 20th president, and honored deserving Americans and Nigerians with awards at the Lagos Continental Hotel in Lagos state.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce is a trade organization that operates on a membership basis and is Nigeria’s first bilateral chamber of commerce.

The statement added that Governor Lawal was honored by the chamber alongside the Governors of Akwa Ibom, Kaduna, and Lagos state.

“Yesterday in Lagos, the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) held its 65th anniversary with the inauguration of Alhaji Sheriff Balogun as the 20th President of the chamber.

“The event, themed ‘The Power of Cooperation: 65 Years of Optimizing Nigerian-American Economic Relations’ was attended by senior officials from both the United States and Nigeria, alongside key members of the business community.”

“The chamber acknowledged Governor Lawal’s support for commerce in Zamfara State, particularly in agriculture.”

“The award was presented to the Governor in recognition of his exemplary leadership, impressive academic achievements, and unwavering commitment to addressing insecurity.”

“The chamber also commended Governor Dauda Lawal for making the lives of the Zamfara people better by prioritizing healthcare delivery, education, agriculture, and empowerment initiatives.”

In his acceptance speech, Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his dedication to improving the lives of Zamfara State residents through enhanced service delivery.

“I want to thank the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce leadership for finding me worthy of this recognition. It will encourage me to do more. This is for all the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 13, 2025

ZITDA 0 Comments

Mar 30 2025

EIDL FITR: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PREACHES UNITY AND PEACE

PRESS STATEMENT

EIDL FITR: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PREACHES UNITY AND PEACE

Governor Dauda Lawal has appealed to the people of Zamfara State to embrace unity and peace. A statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, felicitates the Muslim community for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan fasting. He urged the Muslim community in Zamfara State and beyond to reflect deeply on the sacrifices and devotion to Allah made during Ramadan. He said: “My dear Muslim brothers and sisters in Zamfara State and beyond, I extend the compliments of the seasons and my heartfelt congratulations as we mark the end of the year 1446 AH Ramadan fast. This holy month has been a time of deep reflection, sacrifice, and devotion to Allah (SWT)“. As we celebrate the Eid-el Fitr, I urge every one of us to carry forward the virtues of discipline, patience, and generosity that Ramadan has instilled in us. “The challenges before us are enormous and require collective effort and cooperation to be addressed. Let us therefore set aside our differences, work together as one people, and support the government’s agenda for rescuing and rebuilding our dear State”. Governor Lawal also appreciated the efforts of religious and community leaders for their continued guidance in advancing harmony and promoting the values that bind people together “. As we gather with our loved ones to mark this joyous occasion, let us put our state in prayers for divine intervention as we work round the clock to address the myriad challenges facing our dear state. May Allah (SWT) accept our acts of worship, forgive our shortcomings, and bless our State and the nation at large with lasting peace and prosperity. EID MUBARAK”SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor April 1st, 2025.

ZITDA 0 Comments