GOVERNMENT – Zamfara State Government

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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May 7 2026

FEDERAL AGENCY HONOURS GOV. LAWAL WITH AWARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

FEDERAL AGENCY HONOURS GOV. LAWAL WITH AWARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal was honoured with the National Social Safety Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO) Award of Excellence for inclusive governance and social protection delivery in Zamfara State.

The governor received the award at the NASSCO stakeholder engagement with local government chairmen held in the Transcorp Congress Hall, Abuja.

The National Social Safety Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO), a Federal agency under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, implements social safety-net programs to protect and empower vulnerable populations.

In his remarks at the stakeholder engagement, Governor Lawal commended the Federal Government of Nigeria, the World Bank, and other development partners for supporting ongoing reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection architecture.

He said, “I must commend the expansion of the National Social Register and the integration of the National Identification Number (NIN) to improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability in service delivery.

“This engagement is timely and strategic. In Nigeria, especially in conflict-affected states like Zamfara, social protection has shifted from welfare to a vital tool for governance, security, poverty reduction, and community resilience.

“In Zamfara State, insecurity causes displacement, livelihood disruptions, food insecurity, and economic impacts, increasing vulnerability of women, children, the displaced, disabled, and rural communities.

“Social protection interventions must be better coordinated, transparent, data-driven, and targeted to ensure resources reach those who need them most.

“Distinguished participants, Local Governments are the closest government tier to the people. Their role in community engagement, grassroots mobilisation, data validation, identity support, and intervention monitoring is vital. The national social protection framework must work with Local Government leadership to implement it.

“The integration of NIN with the National Social Register boosts credibility, reduces duplication, enhances transparency, and improves intervention efficiency. But technology alone won’t solve challenges without strong local governance, accountability, and stakeholder collaboration.

“Zamfara State supports efforts to enhance coordination among Federal, State, and Local Government, and to strengthen collaboration with development partners and agencies involved in social protection.

“I believe inclusive development should go beyond cash interventions to include livelihoods, skills, agriculture, healthcare, education, financial inclusion, and community resilience, helping vulnerable populations move from dependency to sustainable participation.”

Presenting the award of excellence to Governor Lawal, Dr Funmi Olotu, the National Coordinator of NASSCO, stated that the recognition reflects his administration’s efforts and dedication to improving social protection and promoting inclusive governance.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 07, 2026

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Apr 13 2026

GOV. LAWAL CHAIRS COUNCIL MEETING, APPROVES 120-DAY RAPID INTERVENTION PLAN FOR ZAMFARA’S EDUCATION

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL CHAIRS COUNCIL MEETING, APPROVES 120-DAY RAPID INTERVENTION PLAN FOR ZAMFARA’S EDUCATION

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved a 120-day Rapid Intervention Action Plan to address critical systemic failures in Zamfara State’s education sector.

On Monday, the governor presided over the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Gusau.

“As part of the deliberation of the 65th Council of the present administration, issues related to education, health, work, and other sectors were discussed and approved.

“The Council approved a 120-day rapid intervention plan that builds on prior diagnostic activities conducted by the Ministry and the Education Quality Assurance Agency (EQAA).

“The rapid plan, as presented to the Council by the overseeing commissioner of education, Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, includes payroll audits, school mapping exercises, and infrastructure assessments. It proposes targeted, time-bound interventions across governance, infrastructure, digital transformation, teacher development, and student welfare.

“The Council also approved the formation of a joint committee to immediately assess all illegal or unapproved structures built around schools in Zamfara State, with a view to relocating them and securing the school environments. The committee, under the leadership of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST).

“The Zamfara State Executive Council approved a single, unified Education Sector Bill (ECCDE to Tertiary) in consultation with stakeholders (agencies, institutions, Civil Society, Traditional Rulers, and Development Partners) for Zamfara State, a draft Bill to be presented to the State House of Assembly for enactment within the emergency timeframe.”

Furthermore, the governor approved the transfer of non-teaching staff (messengers, labourers, gardeners, cooks, guardsmen, drivers, health workers, artisans, etc.) from the Ministry’s payroll to appropriate MDAs (CPG, MoH, Establishment) or private firms.

“The Council, among other important issues, approved the composition of the Zamfara State Steering Committee on the State of Emergency on Education and authorised the Committee to constitute a Technical Working Group (TWG) and co-opt stakeholders (NUT, UNICEF, UBEC, traditional/religious leaders, private school proprietors, CSOs).”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 13, 2026

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Apr 10 2026

DEVELOPMENT: ZAMFARA IS NOW ACCESSIBLE, SAYS UN DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL

PRESS STATEMENT

DEVELOPMENT: ZAMFARA IS NOW ACCESSIBLE, SAYS UN DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL

The United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, said that Zamfara State is open and accessible, and that the UN is willing to be a genuine partner to the State.

The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations paid an official visit to Zamfara on Thursday.

A statement by the Zamfara Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the Deputy Secretary-General conducted an on-site inspection in Maru Local Government and other locations.

The statement added that the entourage of the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General includes the UNDP Country Representative, Elsie Attafuah, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary-General, Hadiza Elayo.

Others are the Country Head, UNODC, Cheikh Toure; Country Head, UNICEF, Wafaa Saeed; Country Head, IOM, Sharon Dimanche; Country Head, UNHCR, Arjun Jain; Country Head, UNAIDS, Krittayawan Boonto; and Country Head, UNFPA, Francis Kuawu.

During the Zamfara State multi-sectoral briefings, Governor Lawal revealed his administration’s plans to advance sustainable development, Climate Resilience, and Inclusive Growth through Strategic Partnerships.

The governor said that Zamfara is at a turning point, with a population of 5.3 million, and the state’s economy is agriculture-driven, with 82% of the population depending on agriculture. “Zamfara’s Six-Point Rescue Agenda is a deliberate strategy to stabilise, rebuild, and transition the state toward inclusive and sustainable development.”

The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, reiterated that presentations made by the Zamfara State Government were very clear. “This is enough for us to be able to partner.

“Investors want an enabling environment. Peace is what you need today for people to come. The Zamfara narrative focuses on conflict related to solid minerals, and this needs to change.

“What you show us today is first and foremost your passion for what you want us to do, and that is what investors want. They want to know what you want.

“I am happy today to be here in Zamfara, because I really want to show the world that we should pay attention to what is happening at the local level. Because this is where people are weakest, where governance is weakest, and where there are the fewest resources.

“When we visit, we give visibility to the effort that has been made and to the impact of what is happening elsewhere in the world on people who have nothing to do with what caused it in the first place.

“Zamfara State is accessible today. And it would be even more accessible because the road we travelled on is still under construction. When it is finished, it will revive the businesses and markets around it, and hopefully, by then, we will witness more peace.

“I see the mining, I see the potentials, I see the market and the demand, but I also see the leadership here who is willing to look at the institution, framework and partner to get the job done.

“There is a lot of hope and potential here. Everyone must play their role; this is not something the governor will do alone. The United Nations is willing to be a genuine partner to Zamfara State.” She said.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 10, 2026

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Apr 9 2026

GOV. LAWAL WINS BON GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR FOR ZAMFARA’S INFRASTRUCTURE

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL WINS BON GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR FOR ZAMFARA’S INFRASTRUCTURE

The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) has awarded Governor Dauda Lawal the Infrastructure Governor of the Year honour for his administration’s giant strides in the Urban Renewal project across Zamfara.

The governor received the award at the second edition of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) held at the NAF conference centre, Abuja.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the BON acknowledged Zamfara state’s unprecedented and transformative achievements in infrastructure, recognising excellence beyond the broadcasting industry.

He added that Governors Bassey Otu of Cross River and Uba Sani of Kaduna, the minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, along with John Momoh, Shyngle Wigwe, Abubakar Jijiwa, and Sa’a Ibrahim, were among the prominent Nigerians honoured at the 2026 Nigeria Broadcasting Awards.

The statement read in parts, “The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, an umbrella body for public and private broadcasters in Nigeria, was established in 1973 to promote the interests of the broadcasting industry and ensure high standards in media practices.

“The organisation conducted a thorough months-long selection process aimed at recognising professional excellence and raising standards for media practice across Nigeria.

“The Awards Selection Committee was chaired by Dr Danladi Bako, former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The awards panel included veterans and representatives from the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and the NBC.

“The selection committee cited numerous reasons for awarding Governor Dauda Lawal, notably his significant progress across sectors, particularly for transforming Gusau into a modern State Capital.

“Zamfara has witnessed unprecedented achievements under Governor Dauda Lawal, including the historic construction of a modern International Airport in the State.

“Apart from urban renewal projects, as well as the construction and outfitting of General Hospitals, Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration has built, refurbished, and equipped over 800 schools across the 14 local government areas of the State.

“This recognition by the highest broadcasting authority in Nigeria will motivate the governor to dedicate more effort to his mission to serve and rebuild Zamfara state.”

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

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Apr 3 2026

FACE OF AFRICA 2026: GOV. LAWAL WINS GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD IN LONDON

PRESS STATEMENT

FACE OF AFRICA 2026: GOV. LAWAL WINS GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD IN LONDON

Governor Dauda Lawal has been honoured with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.

The International Magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award was held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the awards honoured public and private sector leaders whose leadership impacts governance and service delivery.

He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

The statement read in parts, “Yesterday, in London, the United Kingdom, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.

“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has, over the years, celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.

“The award recognises the Zamfara state government, under Governor Lawal’s leadership, for achieving a remarkable milestone in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.

“The board of the Triangle International, among other reasons, said that despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the educational sector.

“The state government’s swift payment of outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO, and the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

“The International magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”

The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s GMD, Kola Adesina, among others.

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