GOVERNOR LAWAL SIGNS N546 BILLION 2025 BUDGET INTO LAW, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESCUE AGENDA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL SIGNS N546 BILLION 2025 BUDGET INTO LAW, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO RESCUE AGENDA

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has signed the 2025 appropriation bill of N546,014,575,000.00 into law.

The 2025 budget, titled “Rescue Budget 2.0,” was presented to the governor by the Zamfara State House of Assembly Speaker on Thursday at the Council Chamber, government house, Gusau.

During the signing of the 2025 appropriation bill, Governor Lawal committed to completing all ongoing legacy projects and building on the successes achieved in his administration’s past 18 months.

The governor highlighted the importance of the 2025 budget, saying that ‘we must not only look at where we are or where we are going, but where we’ve been.

“The situation last year was concerning. A decade of poor governance led to economic collapse, unpaid wages for civil servants, and liabilities that hindered children’s education. Infrastructure was damaged, hospitals were abandoned, and public services became bloated. Additionally, there was a lack of accountability, ongoing electricity bill issues, inadequate water supply, insecurity, and the rise of communicable diseases like cholera, along with declining internal revenue.

“If we had not acted swiftly to all the challenges, Zamfara State would not be a place we all could live in today.

“The 2025 Rescue Budget 2.0 is driven by our commitment to continue the work we’ve started for our people, reflecting strong policies and enthusiasm. This budget also accounts for the increase in the minimum wage for civil servants, rising from N30,000 to N70,000.

“The 2025 budget upholds the best practice of allocating 28% of recurrent expenditure compared to 72% for capital expenditure. The rescue agenda also focuses on key areas for the 2025 budget, including security, education, health, infrastructure, and agriculture.”

Governor Lawal revealed that it is time for Zamfara state to overcome its infrastructure decay and commit to quality architectural development.

The 2025 budget allocates resources to fund the ongoing projects at Gusau International Airport and the construction of the Gusau-Magami to Dansadau Road.

“The 2025 budget allocates resources to the provision of security equipment through the ‘security trust fund,’ building schools through the Agile program, establishing a state-of-the-art diagnostic centre, building a Smart city, food security under the Fadama III program, ease of doing business through the Saber Program, remodelling Bafarawa Institute Shinkafi, and construction of the International Conference Center.

“The ongoing construction of Lalan to Lalan Road, upgrading Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital to a teaching hospital, construction of additional structures in general hospitals of Anka, Kauran namoda, Gummi, Shinkafi, Magami, Tsafe, Jangebe, and Bukkuyum, Improvement of shelter for IDPs through the Solid program, enhancing livestock productivity through the L-Press program, construction of 126 kilometers of magami-dangulbi-dankurmi-bagega-anka road.”

Other projects covered in the 2025 budget are the NG-Cares initiative to empower community development, the construction of Gusau International Sports Center, construction of Mallamawa – Zarummai – Bukkuyyum road, construction of structures for the newly created School of Nursing and midwifery Zurmi, completion of Gusau Shopping Center at the old park, and the construction of a 94-kilometer road in Yandoton Daji- Doka – Yanwaren daji-Hayin alhaji-Bedi – Yankuzo – Tsafe road.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 19, 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMISSIONS ROAD PROJECT IN RIVERS, LAUDS FUBARA’S VISION AND PERFORMANCE

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMISSIONS ROAD PROJECT IN RIVERS, LAUDS FUBARA’S VISION AND PERFORMANCE

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to various developmental projects in Rivers State.

Governor Lawal was the special guest of honor at the commissioning of the Opobo Ring Road and Bridges project, which took place on Monday in the Opobo/Nkoro local government area.

Delivering his remark at the commissioning, Governor Lawal said that the completion of the Opobo Ring Road and bridges reflects Fubara’s commitment to infrastructural development and improving the socio-economic condition and well-being of the people of Rivers State.

“Infrastructure development, as we know, is a cornerstone of economic growth and social progress. The Opobo Ring Road and Bridges will undoubtedly enhance connectivity, promote trade, and facilitate access to essential services for the residents of Opobo and the environs.

“Creating better transportation links will spur economic activities and open new opportunities for communities in and outside the state. The enhanced infrastructure will surely attract investment, boost tourism, and improve the sense of pride and belonging among the people of Opobo.”

Governor Lawal further reiterated that Governor Fubara’s visionary leadership resonates deeply with his administration’s commitment to transforming the social and economic infrastructures in Zamfara State.

“We share a common vision that robust infrastructure is fundamental to nurturing economic activities and uplifting the standard of living of our people. In Zamfara, we are making remarkable strides by constructing and rehabilitating key projects throughout the state.

“The ongoing Gusau International Airport, as well as the construction of an extensive network of rural and urban roads, are clear testimonies to our desire to improve and modernize critical infrastructure to improve the lives and activity of our electorate. These projects align with our shared vision to create opportunities and lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development.

“I commend Governor Fubara for his commitment to the development of Rivers State. This dedication to creating a better future for your people is genuinely inspiring and a model for other states to emulate.

“Once again, I thank His Excellency for the honor of being part of this significant event. I am confident that the Opobo Ring Road and Bridges will bring lasting benefits to the people of Opobo and contribute significantly to the overall development of Rivers State.”

Earlier, Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed gratitude to Governor Lawal for accepting the invitation to serve as the guest of honor.

Governor Fubara stated that the previous administration launched the project to construct the Opobo Ring Road and bridges on May 28, 2023. “We took over the project redesign and upgraded it to the current standard. This project is personally significant to me, and I am delighted to inaugurate it. It brings me great joy.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 17, 2024

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OVER N4 BILLION NG-CARES CASH TRANSFERS TO 44,000 BENEFICIARIES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

EMPOWERMENT: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OVER N4 BILLION NG-CARES CASH TRANSFERS TO 44,000 BENEFICIARIES IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has launched a stimulus package distribution to support the most vulnerable individuals in Zamfara State.

The distribution is part of the COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus program (NG-CARES) held at the Garba Nadama Hall, JB Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau.

The welfare scheme targeted 44,000 vulnerable individuals across 14 local government areas as part of the Zamfara state government’s empowerment initiative.

During the cash transfer’s flag-off, Governor Lawal announced that N4,964,000,000 would be distributed to selected vulnerable individuals as beneficiaries.

The governor emphasized that through active participation in the welfare programme, Zamfara State has made remarkable progress, with over 1.1 million beneficiaries recorded across the various cycles. “These achievements were made possible by our Community Development Agency, Fadama III Project, and the Ministry of Commerce, among others.

“The financial gains from this initiative were equally impressive, with earnings of about N64 billion across three cycles. This success is what earned our state recognition at the national level.

“I traversed the entire 14 Local Government Areas of the state for the launch of COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus under the auspices of FADAMA III between January and February 2024. We ensured that no community was left behind; that strenuous effort contributed significantly to qualifying our state for the World Bank’s outstanding recognition due to our dexterity in implementing the programme.”

Furthermore, Governor Lawal stressed that the cash transfer segment of the programme has four categories. “The first is the Labour-Intensive Public Workfare scheme, under which each beneficiary will receive N20,000 monthly over a period of one year.

“To ensure equity and gender sensitivity, 60% of this allocation is allocated to women, while the remaining 40% is for men.

“The women’s share will specifically target widows, divorcees, and volunteer hospital workers serving without pay.

“While the social register is in use, our revered traditional rulers will play an integral role in identifying deserving beneficiaries from their communities.

“The second category is the Social Transfers, in which N10,000 will be provided monthly for one year to each beneficiary in the category of the physically challenged individuals, the chronically ill, and the elderly.

“This support is intended to ease the burden on those facing formidable challenges daily and ensure they can live with relative dignity and comfort.

“The Livelihood Support Grant is a one-off payment of N150,000 targeted to small-scale business owners.

“Equal consideration has been given to men and women, with specific trades identified to cater to and improve their respective areas of expertise. From tailoring to food vending, this initiative intends to revitalize small businesses and create a ripple effect of economic growth across our communities.

“Similarly, the Grants to SMEs will provide a one-off payment of N50,000 to targeted groups, including Yan Agaji, female-headed households, and scholars from Makarantar Allo and Islamiya schools. This measure is designed to empower diverse segments of the population and strengthen the foundation of our local economy.”

The governor commended the NG-CARES Steering Committee and Implementation Units for their dedication and commitment to excellence.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 10, 2024

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN NEW COMMISSIONER, RESHUFFLES CABINET

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN NEW COMMISSIONER, RESHUFFLES CABINET

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal rejigged his cabinet and assigned a portfolio to the newly sworn-in commissioner.

On Monday, Governor Dauda Lawal chaired the Zamfara State Executive Council, during which the new commissioner was sworn in.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the governor made a minor cabinet reshuffle in the portfolios of commissioners.

The statement added that Kaura’s appointment follows Mannir Muazu Haidara’s resignation as Commissioner and his subsequent election as Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

During the swearing-in, Governor Lawal stressed that Kasimu Sani Kaura’s selection to represent Kaura Namoda Local Government Area in the cabinet was informed by his competent service to his community and the state in general.

He said, “His appointment is an affirmation of this Administration’s resolve to continue tapping from the pool of available capacity and the fountain of knowledge and experiences of our committed citizens to fast-track the delivery of democratic dividends and deliver on our rescue agenda to the good people of Zamfara State.

“I urge the new Commissioner to rededicate himself to serving the people. As a central member of the rescue mission, I do not doubt that he will give his best for the benefit of all.

“Honorable Commissioner, I congratulate you on this call to duty and opportunity to serve. I pray for Allah’s guidance and protection upon you and us all. I urge you to work closely with your colleagues in the council and the Ministry on your assignment to realize the good of all.”

The governor reiterated that he has carefully assessed the skills, abilities, and performance of all senior government officials, which led to the minor reshuffling of the cabinet. “To enhance efficiency and effectiveness in fulfilling our mandate, I believe making some minor adjustments within the Cabinet is necessary.”

“In service delivery, I will continue to demand all senior appointees to put in their best and monitor every one of you so that we have square pegs in square holes. Therefore, I have approved the following postings and redeployments with immediate effect.

“The newly appointed commissioner, Kasimu Sani Kaura, will take over as the commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, succeeding Hon. Mahmud Mohammed Abdullahi, who has been reassigned to the Ministry of Information and Culture.

“Hon. Nasiru Ibrahim Zurmi has taken over as the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, replacing Hon. Kabiru Moyi, who has been reassigned to Project Monitoring and Implementation.

“Additionally, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad has been moved to the Ministry of Health, taking over from Dr. Aisha M. Za Anka, now the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development.

“All hand-over protocols are to be concluded within seven days. I wish to remind you once more that I will periodically monitor and evaluate the performance of all appointees as we approach our mid-term in office. Let us use this time to recommit and rededicate ourselves to the service of our Zamfara state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 09, 2024

HIGH-LEVEL TURKISH FIRM BEGINS MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOVERNOR LAWAL RECEIVES DIREKCI GROUPS

PRESS STATEMENT

HIGH-LEVEL TURKISH FIRM BEGINS MECHANIZED MANUFACTURING IN ZAMFARA AS GOVERNOR LAWAL RECEIVES DIREKCI GROUPS

A prominent Turkish company, Direkci Group, will begin mechanized farming and incorporate greenhouses to diversify agriculture in Zamfara State.

On Saturday, Nurullah Mehmet, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Direkci Group, led a delegation on an official visit to Governor Dauda Lawal at his office in the government house in Gusau.

The Turkish firm plans to revolutionize agriculture in Zamfara State by cultivating cotton, sugarcane, and soybeans on a large scale.

In addition to traditional farming, the group will introduce mechanized farming methods, including greenhouse technology and poultry farming, which promise substantial benefits across multiple fronts.

In his remarks, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring food security and creating employment opportunities for the people of Zamfara State.

“As I promised during the campaign, if elected, my government will focus on security, agriculture and food security, education, healthcare, the economy, and empowerment.

“Our beloved state, Zamfara, is recognized as an agricultural society. Our goal is to revive this sector. We aim to secure the state so people can return to their farms.

“Most importantly, after securing the farms, the next step is to provide advanced technologies for our farmers, as we already have the land and the workforce.

“This is why we enthusiastically welcome partnerships and collaborations with investors with a proven track record, such as the Direkci Groups.

“I traveled to Turkey in July, visiting greenhouse projects, dairy farming, poultry operations, and the Turk Traktor manufacturing plant. The Direkci Group is in Zamfara to introduce technological advancements in agriculture.”

Earlier, Nurullah Mehmet, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Direkci Groups, commended Governor Lawal for the many projects his administration has initiated in a short time.

“Our company, Direkci, is undertaking various projects across different states in Nigeria.

“Direkci’s agricultural Initiative in Zamfara state will enhance agricultural value chains and attract investment, fostering local economic growth.

“The introduction of greenhouses allows year-round cultivation, unaffected by seasonal changes. Improved crop yield and quality contribute to local food availability and reduce import dependence.

“Mechanized farming and poultry initiatives will create employment opportunities across various skill levels, from farmworkers to agribusiness professionals.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 09, 2024

Zamfara has emerged 1st in the Digital Technology Infrastructure Development

Zamfara has emerged 1st in the Digital Technology Infrastructure Development category of the Peer-Review session of the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.This underscores Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment to advancing technology and innovation, heralding a significant step towards modernizing our digital infrastructure.

#WeMeanBusiness

GOV. LAWAL PRESENTS N545 BILLION 2025 ‘RESCUE BUDGET 2.0’ TO ZAMFARA ASSEMBLY, PRIORITIZES SECURITY, HEALTH AND EDUCATION

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL PRESENTS N545 BILLION 2025 ‘RESCUE BUDGET 2.0’ TO ZAMFARA ASSEMBLY, PRIORITIZES SECURITY, HEALTH AND EDUCATION

Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting a more pragmatic approach to managing Zamfara State’s finances.

On Thursday, the governor presented the Zamfara State House of Assembly with an estimated N545,014,575,000.00 as a proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that for the first time in Zamfara, the Ministry of Health takes 11% of the proposed budget’s total sum, amounting to N62,124,702,98.

The statement added that the educational sector accounts for 14% of the total sum, which also amounts to N79, 664, 861, 461.

“Security, which constitutes 6% of the total amount, totals N32, 288, 70, 000. Agriculture accounts for 6% amounting to N34, 716, 18, 000.”

Delivering his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized that the 2025 budget represents a roadmap for addressing the pressing needs of Zamfara state.

He said: “It is a vision for the future of Zamfara. It is also a testament to our resolve to transform challenges into opportunities and deliver a more prosperous, secure state for our people.

“Over the past 18 months, we have achieved remarkable revenue growth of 240.44%, elevating our state from 36th to 26th in Nigeria’s internal revenue generation standings. This is a testament to the rigorous revenue generation drive and strategic measures implemented by this administration to block revenue leakages.

“We have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to financial sustainability through enhanced accountability, improved collection systems, and the expansion of revenue sources.

“While this achievement is commendable, it is crucial to note that the increase is in relative terms rather than absolute. We will ensure revenue-generating MDAs redouble their efforts by thoroughly exploring all potential sources and maximizing opportunities.

“To speed up the process of economic development and secure a brighter future for our people, we have embarked on transformative projects with significant potential to strengthen the state’s financial standing. A notable example is the Gusau International Airport, which this administration awarded to align with our strategic vision.

“We are advancing critical infrastructure projects in roads, healthcare, agriculture, rural development, and education. These initiatives are carefully designed to build a resilient economy capable of improving the livelihoods of our citizens.

“We have sustained the culture of reforms in the public sector, which we initiated shortly after assumption of office. These reforms aim to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure the effective utilization of public resources. A key aspect of these reforms is the digitization of government services. Notable examples include the digitization of the Executive Council chambers, land registry, revenue generation, and collection system.

“We have introduced performance-based budgeting and strengthened financial oversight mechanisms. Budgets are no longer annual rituals often not adhered to; instead, they are strategic tools for achieving developmental goals. We aim to build a transparent, accountable governance framework that inspires public trust and drives socio-economic development.

“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the 2025 budget proposal has been meticulously crafted to reflect our aspirations for a prosperous Zamfara State. Like the 2024 budget, it prioritizes capital expenditure over recurrent costs, ensures equitable resource distribution, and lays a solid foundation for sustainable development. With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, I am confident that we can overcome our challenges and achieve the transformative growth that Zamfara State deserves.”

Governor Lawal said that the total estimate for the 2025 fiscal year is N545,014,575,000.00, which represents ₦151,680,000,000.00 for Recurrent Expenditures and ₦393,334,575,000.00 for Capital Expenditures.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 05, 2024

GOV. LAWAL COMMITS TO JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE AND EXPEDITED JUSTICE DELIVERY IN ZAMFARA STATE

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL COMMITS TO JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE AND EXPEDITED JUSTICE DELIVERY IN ZAMFARA STATE

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed that his administration is dedicated to prioritizing initiatives that improve timely justice delivery and protect the judiciary’s independence.

The governor said this on Monday at the opening ceremony of a capacity-building workshop for magistrates, registrars, and court clerks at the Zamfara State High Court of Justice, which was held at the High Court complex in Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the conference provides a platform for judicial officers and stakeholders to assess the judiciary’s performance, identify challenges, and set new goals.

In his opening remark, Governor Lawal acknowledged the commitment and exemplary leadership of the State’s Chief Judge, Justice Kulu Aliyu, OFR, FNJI, and the entire Judicial branch for their demonstrated commitment to discharge their responsibilities.

He said: “The consistent commitment of Her Lordship to the dispensation of justice inspires confidence and increases trust in the Judiciary as a critical institution in a constitutional democracy. This administration stays fully committed to supporting the judiciary in all its endeavors.

“My government will continue to prioritize initiatives that enhance justice delivery on time and safeguard the independence of this noble arm of government.”

Governor Lawal noted that the workshop’s importance can not be overemphasized. “It will improve the skills and enrich the participants’ knowledge so that they are better prepared to serve and meet public expectations. Our people look up to you as the last hope for the common man in dispensing justice, fairness, and protection of their rights. Judicial officers and staff must be well prepared to meet these expectations, particularly in these challenging times.

“My Lord Chief Judge, Judges of Zamfara State High Court, distinguished participants, it is gratifying to note the proactive measures the Judiciary is taking in preparing and equipping Magistrates, Registrars, and other staff with the requisite training for efficient and effective delivery of justice.

“In this context, it is crucial to emphasize technological necessity advancements of embracing through the automation of the entire judicial system in the state. This has the potential to streamline processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency, thereby ensuring speedy dispensation of justice. I believe that if we integrate modern tools into judicial operations, we will build a robust system responsive to the needs of our people and modern times.”

The governor also urges the judiciary to stay vigilant against a few individuals whose behavior may undermine the integrity of the noble institution. “Identifying and addressing misconduct within the system is a shared responsibility that demands diligence, steadfastness, integrity, and commitment.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 03, 2024

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS AFREXIM INVESTMENT CONFERENCE IN KENYA, SAYS ZAMFARA STATE IS SEEKING TRANSPARENT PARTNERSHIPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS AFREXIM INVESTMENT CONFERENCE IN KENYA, SAYS ZAMFARA STATE IS SEEKING TRANSPARENT PARTNERSHIPS

Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to focus on transparent and open development partnerships that leverage Zamfara State’s unique social and economic advantages.

The governor represented the Nigeria Governors Forum and was a panelist at the fourth Africa Sub-Sovereign Network Conference, held on Monday at the Swiss Grand Royal Hotel in Kisumu County, Kenya.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the conference, which started from November 25 to 27, was declared open by the President of Kenya, Dr. Williams Ruto.

The statement added that the theme for the AfsNET conference is “Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns.”

Governor Lawal, delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigeria Governors Forum, says this year’s theme of the AfsNET conference resonates with the developmental aspirations of African sub-national governments. “It challenges us to align our strategies and resources toward unlocking the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“In Nigeria, we recognize the critical role of sub-national governments in driving trade, investment, and economic growth. Our 36 states are diverse economic hubs, each with unique comparative advantages contributing to the national economy.

“One example of leveraging trade for sustainable development can be seen in the Kaduna State Agro-Allied Industrial Zone, a public-private partnership initiative designed to integrate agricultural production with processing and export.

“This project demonstrates how sub-sovereigns can harness local resources and the AfCFTA framework to enhance value addition and expand market access across Africa. Similarly, the Lekki Free Trade Zone has become a model of industrialization and foreign direct investment attraction in Lagos State. Its strategic location and integration into regional trade corridors highlight the importance of infrastructure and institutional support in realizing AfCFTA’s benefits.”

At the panel discussion on creating sustainable solutions for the development of the African Region, Governor Lawal highlighted that development and sustainability are intertwined concepts that aim to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.

“As governor within the Northwest sub-region of Nigeria, which includes six other Governors, we have created the Northwest Governors’ Forum to articulate and harmonize policies that will engender regional cooperation for sustainable development. This has already begun to yield results that facilitate prosperity within the sub-region.

“To sustain any development solution, the collaboration between governments at different levels in development efforts is critical and the way out. Decisive, accountable, and transparent institutions are needed to inspire confidence in the stakeholders.

On security, Governor Lawal emphasized that without a secure environment, governments cannot efficiently provide social services such as education, healthcare, gender equality, elimination of inequality, and foster economic empowerment of the most vulnerable, essential prerequisites for sustained development.

“Constitutional provisions limit the scope of a Governor in terms of providing security to the people he governs; nonetheless, we have made concerted efforts to ensure that our environment remains secure by establishing the Community Protection Guard (CPG), which has curtailed the level of insecurity experienced before the advent of my administration.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 27, 2024