GOVERNMENT – Zamfara State Government

Sep 3 2026

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES OUTSTANDING GOVERNOR AWARD AT DAILY TIMES CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES OUTSTANDING GOVERNOR AWARD AT DAILY TIMES CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, received the Outstanding Governor Award from the Daily Times in the North–West region during its centenary anniversary in Abuja.

The governor accepted the award today at the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards, organised by Nigeria’s oldest newspaper to commemorate its 100th anniversary.

Governor Lawal was recognised for his leadership, public service, and contribution to national development.

The award was part of activities celebrating the centenary of the newspaper, which was first published in 1926 and has chronicled Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural progress over the past century.

Chairman of the DTN@100 Heroes Awards Council, Bolaji Okusaga, stated that Governor Lawal was chosen because he received the highest nominations in the North-West.

“Following an extensive nomination and public voting process, you received the highest number of votes in this award category.

“The Times Heroes Award Council and other key stakeholders subsequently confirmed your selection in recognition of your leadership, public service, and contribution to national development,” Mr. Okusaga said.

Governor Lawal expressed his gratitude to the Board, Management, and Organising Committee of the Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration, the Times Heroes Award Council, and all Nigerians who supported his nomination.

He stated that the honour reflects his commitment to promoting good governance and effective public service in Zamfara State.

Other notable Nigerians honoured include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; and former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina.

The newspaper announced that recipients of the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards will be featured among the most outstanding individuals and institutions in the 700-page Nigerian Grand Book.

“This publication will serve as a national commemorative volume and a lasting record of the people, institutions, and achievements shaping Nigeria’s development.”

The foreword of the Nigerian Grand Book has been written by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 03, 2026

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Sep 1 2026

GOVERNOR LAWAL SPEAKS AT 2026 CEO FORUM ON UNLOCKING INVESTMENTS IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal participated in the 2026 CEO Forum, focusing on linking capital to opportunities and aligning business strategies to promote investment and inclusive economic development in Zamfara State.

The governor delivered the Special Policy Address on Tuesday at the event organized by the Global Compact Network Nigeria.

This year’s event, held in Lagos, focused on the theme “Financing a Dignified Future: Aligning Business Action, Policy and Capital.”

The forum is an exclusive CEO Roundtable and Leadership Dialogue that brings together chief executives, senior government officials, industry leaders from sectors such as oil and gas, energy, manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure, as well as trade commissioners, diplomats, and international development partners.

Governor Lawal spoke on how states compete for increasingly selective private capital and what distinguishes an economic opportunity from an investable proposition.

He provided insight into how Zamfara State, under his leadership, is working to bridge that gap in ways that support both investor confidence and meaningful economic outcomes for its people.

The forum aims to provide a platform where business leaders, government officials, and investors can work together to better align their decisions and unlock productive investment and inclusive economic growth.

This year’s event focused on connecting capital to opportunities by identifying where promising businesses, sectors, and projects struggle to access funding and what can help attract investment.

Defining the Dignity Dividend, on the other hand, explores how investment and growth can translate into better jobs, stronger businesses, increased productivity, local value creation and wider economic participation.

Securing Actionable Commitments identifies specific actions and partnerships that institutions represented in the room can advance over the following 6–12 months.

Other notable speakers included the CEOs of First Bank Group, Access Bank, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Nigerian Exchange Group, Chellarams Plc, SecureID Group, Greenwich Merchant Bank Plc, and others.

The organizers said the session will culminate in a live showcase of the Business Value and Sustainability Platform (BVSP) — a light-touch, standing coalition of business, capital, and policy actors designed to carry the conversation forward, including by shaping Nigeria’s private-sector contribution to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 01, 2026

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Aug 18 2026

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has been honoured with the Blueprint Newspapers’ 2026 Efficient Public Resource Management and Transparency Award.

The governor on Tuesday received the award at the 8th edition of Blueprint Newspapers’ Annual Public Lecture, Impact Series and Awards, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

This year’s theme of the event was “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections.”

Delivering remarks at the event, Governor Lawal expressed his appreciation to the management of Blueprint Newspaper and vowed to do more in his administration’s efforts to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

He said, “This award is a testament that the media and Nigerians outside Zamfara are witnessing the efforts my government is putting in our quest to make Zamfara great.

“In the three years of my government, we have recorded so many successes in the areas of security, education, health, economy, human capital, infrastructure, among others. And all these were achieved because we run a transparent government.”

The newspaper, among the reasons for the award, said Governor Lawal was recognised for his prudent management of public resources, fiscal accountability and efforts to promote transparent governance in Zamfara State.

The award, it said, emphasises responsible stewardship of public resources and the connection between fiscal discipline and inclusive development.

The Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar, said Governor Lawal “represents a blend of professional accomplishment and public service.”

He said the governor’s experience in diplomacy, banking and politics has equipped him with a broad understanding of governance, financial management and institutional leadership.

“As Governor of Zamfara State, he continues to pursue policies aimed at restoring stability, improving infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said.

He added that “his government has focused on improving financial discipline, strengthening public sector accountability and ensuring that public resources are directed toward projects capable of producing measurable benefits for the people of Zamfara State.”

“He has consistently emphasised responsible budgeting, efficient service delivery and prudent management of state finances as essential foundations for long-term development,” the newspaper said in the governor’s citation.

His administration, it said, has supported initiatives aimed at improving security operations, protecting rural communities and creating conditions that encourage displaced residents to return to their homes and resume productive activities.

Governor Lawal has placed considerable emphasis on rebuilding public infrastructure across Zamfara State, the newspaper said.

His government, it said, has undertaken road rehabilitation and construction projects, improved public buildings and invested in infrastructure designed to stimulate commerce, improve transportation and enhance access to essential public services.

These projects are intended to reconnect communities, facilitate economic activities and support balanced development across urban and rural areas, the citation stated.

It added that Governor Lawal’s administration also recognises education as a critical tool for reducing poverty and creating opportunities for future generations. He also pursued reforms to strengthen healthcare delivery throughout the state.

The event brought together policymakers, security chiefs, political leaders, diplomats, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical measures to ensure peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 18, 2026

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Aug 9 2026

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

PRESS STATEMENT

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, other state governors, and the President’s Chief of Staff will represent Nigeria at the Canada–Africa Summit on digital rails and inclusive growth.

The Maiden Investment Summit is set to take place in Toronto from August 10 to 15, 2026.

The Presidency’s invitation to Governor Lawal highlighted that his role as a key participant would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic standing at the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Economic Conference (NDIEC).

The Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) is a leading global platform where governments, investors, multinational companies, development finance institutions, foundations, and partners form strategic partnerships and explore investment opportunities.

The summit will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goals through the National Energy Transition Plan to make Nigeria a key partner in Africa–Canada economic cooperation.

The Zamfara State Government sees NIDEC as more than just a diplomatic event; it is a strategic economic mission to attract investment, technology transfer, development funding, and technical partnerships to drive the State’s economic transformation.

Governor Lawal’s involvement in the Canada-Africa Investment Summit will help position Zamfara State as Nigeria’s emerging hub for agribusiness, strategic minerals development, human capital growth, and digital innovation.

Nigeria’s delegation also includes the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the governors Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Sen. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, among others.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 09, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

PRESS STATEMENT

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has been honoured with the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award in Ghana, recognising his administration’s notable achievements over the past three years.

The 7th ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award ceremony was held on Friday at the British Council in Accra, Ghana.

This year’s theme for the lecture was “Leadership, Peace, and Regional Integration: Advancing Africa’s Development in a Changing Global Order.”

The award’s board and governing council emphasised, among other reasons for the honour, Governor Dauda Lawal’s significant progress in public sector leadership and economic reforms in Zamfara State.

The BOT chairman of the ZIK Pan-African Award, His Royal Highness Professor Echefuna R.G Onyeabadi, stated that the award aims to recognise individuals making meaningful contributions in service to the people.

In his remarks after receiving the award, Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his gratitude and committed to doing more to help rescue and rebuild Zamfara State.

He said: “This award is dedicated to all the people of Zamfara State. My administration has been working tirelessly to ensure the state can compete with any other in Nigeria. That was our promise, and we have surpassed expectations in just three years.

“My administration has transformed Zamfara through urban renewal initiatives; we constructed a modern, state-of-the-art airport, something that had not existed for over 30 years since the state’s founding.

“We have made great strides in security, civil service reform, education, health, and other sectors.

“I appreciate the organisers of this annual lecture and award. It means a lot to me and will motivate me to do even more for my people. Zamfara is on the rise.”

Among other dignitaries awarded at the event is the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, for his contributions to public service and sustainable development.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on his birthday.

The National Chairman and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction turned 58th on August 08, 2026.

The Zamfara Governor described the chairman as a valuable asset to the progressive family and Nigeria’s political development.

He said, “On his birthday, I felicitate with our Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, a refined academic and committed party leader who prioritises the development of the All Progressives Congress.

“The exemplary leadership and vision displayed by Professor Nentawe have played a vital role in promoting major initiatives and in encouraging cooperation among the members of our great party.

“As you turn 58 today, I wish you many more years of complete mental, physical, and social well-being so Nigeria continues to benefit from your vast knowledge and experience.”

Governor Lawal noted that Professor Nentawe’s handling of the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections shows his knowledge, discipline, sincerity, and commitment to doing what is right.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Jul 12 2026

GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS $200 MILLION ZAMFARA LITHIUM MINING PLANT, SAYS DEV’T DEPENDS ON RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS $200 MILLION ZAMFARA LITHIUM MINING PLANT, SAYS DEV’T DEPENDS ON RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated that development comes when resources are managed efficiently and transparently, and the government provides an enabling environment for investors to operate responsibly.

The governor on Saturday unveiled the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant in Boko Village, Zurmi Local Government Area.

The 200-million-dollar Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant is a joint investment by ZAM Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd, and other partners.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal described the unveiling as a new beginning to unlock Zamfara State’s potential through responsible investment, industrial growth, job creation, and the sustainable use of mineral resources, with the people at the centre.

He said, “For many years, our State has been known within and outside this country as a haven of vast mineral deposits. Our land is blessed with abundant resources; the measure of this blessing is how it is responsibly harnessed to improve the lives of our people.

“From the inception of this administration, we made a firm commitment to change the narrative of the solid minerals sector in Zamfara State from informality to organisation, from exploitation to value creation, and from lost opportunities to shared prosperity.

“This is why our administration has continued to support reforms promoting lawful mining activities, attracting credible investors, and strengthening partnerships with the Federal Government to ensure mining activities contribute meaningfully to economic growth and development.

“The global economy is changing rapidly. Lithium and other critical minerals are central to the future of renewable energy, electric vehicles, modern technology, and industrial transformation. Zamfara State cannot afford to remain only a source of raw minerals; we must become active participants in the entire value chain.

“The establishment of this processing plant is consistent with our vision to move beyond extraction towards local processing, value addition, skills development, and industrial growth.

“Let me assure all genuine investors that Zamfara State Government will continue to provide the enabling environment to succeed. We will strengthen security collaboration, improve infrastructure, and develop policies that promote sustainable development.

“I hereby state unequivocally that our administration is committed to mining activities that respect the law, protect our environment, and provide direct benefits to our communities.”

The governor further reiterated that the people of Boko Village and surrounding communities must see this investment as a partnership for development.

“The people’s well-being must be enhanced. I therefore mandate that the operators prioritise local employment, skills transfer, community development, environmental protection, and meaningful corporate social responsibility.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Zamfara State, I congratulate all stakeholders who made this event possible.

“It is now my honour and privilege to officially unveil the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 12, 2026

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Jul 3 2026

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal attended the inaugural State House Press Corps Presidential Dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

At the event, Governor Lawal had the honour of decorating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Grand Patron of the State House Press Corps.

The presidential dinner aimed to strengthen engagement between journalists and senior government officials, recognise excellence in presidential reporting, and provide an informal setting for interaction between media and top government figures.

During his remarks, President Tinubu urged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy, and responsibility in reporting, describing the press as a critical partner in nation-building and democratic governance.

The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The State House Press Corps comprises journalists accredited to cover the President and activities within the Presidential Villa.

The maiden dinner was attended by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Others in attendance are the Ministers of Finance, Education, Health, Agriculture, and Information, as well as the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 03, 2026

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS INAUGURAL STATE HOUSE PRESS CORPS DINNER

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Jun 11 2026

FG COMMISSIONS AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING CENTRE IN GUSAU, TRAINS 100 YOUTHS IN MECHATRONICS

PRESS STATEMENT

FG COMMISSIONS AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING CENTRE IN GUSAU, TRAINS 100 YOUTHS IN MECHATRONICS

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) trained 100 youths in mechatronics to repair petrol and CNG powered tricycles and motorcycles in Zamfara State.

The automotive centre in Gusau was commissioned on Thursday by the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the centre and training were coordinated through a collaboration between the NADCC and the Zamfara State office of the Made in Nigeria Special Project.

The statement noted that the Automotive Training Centres (ATCs) were established in all six geo-political zones, providing equal access to training and technical services.

In his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said that advances in mechatronics, electric mobility, alternative fuel technologies, smart diagnostics, and digital systems are redefining transportation worldwide.

He said, “I warmly welcome the Hon. Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; the Chairman of the NADDC Governing Board, Chief Emma Eneukwu; the Director-General and CEO of NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, along with our development partners and private sector representatives.

“I wish to express my profound appreciation to the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). Through its visionary leadership and commitment to skills development, NADDC has continued to position Nigeria to become one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturing nations.

“I also commend (PADSON Group) Nigeria Limited, the Made-in-Nigeria Project Office, the program facilitators, and all stakeholders whose dedication and collaboration have made this project a reality.”

“As a government, we recognise that the future belongs to societies that invest in knowledge, innovation, and human capital development. It is therefore imperative that our youths acquire industry-relevant competencies that enable them to compete favourably in the rapidly evolving global economy.

“After assuming office in 2023, I visited NADDC in Abuja within a month to seek collaboration in equipping youths with practical automotive skills. I believe empowering youth with employable skills is vital to fight poverty, unemployment, and insecurity. I’m pleased that this vision has now materialised.

“Today marks a milestone in our commitment to youth empowerment, skills, technology, and economic growth in Zamfara State, opening doors to opportunities, innovation, self-reliance, and prosperity for our young people.”

The governor emphasised that establishing the Centre in Zamfara aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on youth development, industrialisation, and cleaner energy through the Presidential CNG Initiative.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Owan, said the Federal Government has intensified its engagements with international investors and leading automotive manufacturers to establish automotive industrial hubs and expand local production capabilities across Nigeria.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 11, 2026

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May 15 2026

GOV. LAWAL MAKES HISTORY AS ZAMFARA RECORDS FIRST HAJJ FLIGHT FROM GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL MAKES HISTORY AS ZAMFARA RECORDS FIRST HAJJ FLIGHT FROM GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Governor Lawal has made a mark in the history of Zamfara State with the inaugural Hajj flight departing from Gusau International Airport.

The inaugural flight departed Gusau International Airport on Friday, carrying 415 Zamfara intending pilgrims aboard Max Air flight NGL270.

The historic flight recorded a total number of 288 males and 127 females.

During the inaugural flight, Governor Lawal expressed his excitement and gratitude for witnessing this milestone in the history of Zamfara State.

The governor described the construction of Gusau International Airport as a legacy project of great importance to his administration.

“I am happy today that our pilgrims will be flying directly from Gusau International Airport to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage.

“Many doubted this would become a reality, but today it has. We began building this International Airport on June 18, 2024.

“I can’t express how happy I am. To our intending pilgrims, this is a great opportunity to travel comfortably. In less than 4 hours, they will reach Saudi Arabia. Before, our pilgrims had to travel to Sokoto or Kano before they could fly for Hajj.

“Words cannot fully express my happiness, but I will say this is a historic milestone and a fulfilment of our campaign promises. I am committed to doing even more for our dear state.

“I thank the people for their prayers and trust in us. This is just the beginning.

“We have already begun discussions with airlines that will operate commercial flights from the Gusau International Airport.

“I wish our intending pilgrims a successful flight and pilgrimage. I also urge them to pray for Zamfara and Nigeria.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 15, 2026

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