ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL DIRECTS ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS SEEKING POLITICAL OFFICES TO RESIGN
Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has directed all council members who wish to run for political office in the 2027 general elections to resign.
The governor issued the directive on Monday during the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Gusau.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the directive aligns with the Electoral Act, signed into law by the President, and INEC’s release of the 2027 election timetable.
The statement read in parts, “Today, Governor Dauda Lawal presided over the 64th Executive Council Meeting, where critical issues were deliberated for the development of Zamfara State.
“In his opening remarks, the governor directed that all council members vying for political offices should resign on or before the 31st of March 2026.
“The governor instructed the Secretary of the State Government to issue a circular to all political appointees aspiring for elective offices, requiring them to resign from their appointments before the due date.
“The Head of Service is directed to issue the same to all Civil Servants who nurse the aspiration to contest an election.”
Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s commitment to serving the people of Zamfara State.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 23, 2026
GOV. LAWAL EXCITED AS ZAMFARA CONDUCTS HISTORIC FLIGHT TEST AT GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Governor Dauda Lawal expressed excitement for the historic test run of the maiden flight at Gusau International Airport.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the test flight landed at the Gusau International Airport at exactly 4:30pm on Sunday.
He added that the aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 605, was operated by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The statement read in parts, “Today will remain a historic day in the history of Zamfara State as Governor Lawal witnessed the landing of the maiden flight at the Gusau International Airport.
“The aircraft with registration 5N-FGZ performed a one-off test to assess the airport’s capability for VIP movements scheduled next week.
“The test flight is in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 12.1.4.1(c).
“Before the test flight, the state government requested permission from the NCAA, and the Authority granted a one-off ‘No Technical Objection’ (NTO) for the Aircraft to land in Gusau.
“The flight operation was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), which was strictly from sunrise to sunset.
“The historic test flight has significantly boosted Governor Lawal’s administration’s reputation, especially since Zamfara has lacked an airport since its creation over 30 years ago.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 22, 2026
EID-EL FITR: GOV. LAWAL URGES MUSLIMS TO INTENSIFY PRAYERS FOR PEACE
Governor Dauda Lawal urged Muslim faithful to increase their prayers for peace in Zamfara State and across the country.
The governor appealed for prayers while congratulating the Muslim faithful on completing 30 days of fasting during Ramadan.
Governor Lawal reiterated that Eid El-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast, pray, and reflect spiritually.
“I congratulate the Muslim faithful in Zamfara and Nigeria as we conclude the 30-day Ramadan fast, marking this year’s Eid El-Fitr, the ‘festival of breaking the fast.’
“Eid El-Fitr is a joyous occasion, representing gratitude, unity, and renewal. It is a moment to intensify our prayers for peace in our beloved state and throughout the nation.
“The 30-day fast we just observed aims to instil patience, self-discipline, empathy, spiritual mindfulness, and a deeper connection with God.
“To improve Zamfara and Nigeria for everyone, we must unite. We have a collective responsibility to be our brothers’ keepers and work towards a better future for our state and nation.”
Governor Lawal prayed for a peaceful Eid celebration and hoped for the blessings of good health, peace, and a thriving economy in the years to come.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 19, 2026
ZAMFARA GOVERNOR IN TINUBU’S DELEGATION FOR HISTORIC UK STATE VISIT
Governor Dauda Lawal has been selected to accompany President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a historic State Visit to the United Kingdom.
The President and the First Lady, along with other members of the presidential entourage, will depart Abuja for the United Kingdom on Tuesday, marking the start of the state visit.
A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that King Charles will host President Tinubu, his wife and the entourage at Windsor Castle from Wednesday, March 18, to Thursday, March 19.
The statement read in parts, “Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal will join President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s entourage for a historic visit to the United Kingdom on March 18 and 19, 2026.
“The purpose of the state visit, according to the presidency, is to strengthen bilateral relations and explore collaboration opportunities in immigration, trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
“At Windsor Castle, President Tinubu, the First Lady, and their entourage will be invited by Their Majesties to view a special exhibition of Royal Collection items related to Nigeria. In the evening, the Royal Family will host a State Banquet in honour of the Nigerian guests.
“During the visit, President Tinubu will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer, leading to expanded bilateral talks ending with the signing of MoUs on trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
“The President will serve as the guest of honour at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, which features modern art and culture, and will also participate in a reception with Nigerian and British business leaders as well as diaspora community members.
“The state visit will provide Governor Lawal with networking opportunities, opening significant prospects for investment and economic benefits for Zamfara State.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 16, 2026
WHY I DEFECTED TO ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS –GOV. DAUDA LAWAL
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has cited the ongoing legal dispute and crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the primary reason for his defection from the party.
Zamfara State Deputy Governor, Mallam Mani Mummuni, announced the formal defection on Monday after a stakeholders’ meeting at the government house in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, described the defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a necessary step for the greater good.
The statement noted that joining the All Progressives Congress was a decision made by the stakeholders in Zamfara State amidst ongoing legal challenges faced by the People’s Democratic Party.
The statement read in parts, “Yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal has officially decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC), a decision reached and endorsed by all relevant stakeholders in Zamfara State.
“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party. He has worked diligently to facilitate reconciliation among the party’s factions, ensuring it remains unified and can field candidates for upcoming elections.
“Efforts to achieve peace, reconciliation, and out-of-court settlements have proven difficult, leading to a series of legal battles that may have future implications, particularly for leaders contesting elections in 2027.
“Governor Lawal was the last man standing in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who stood firm until the very end, which was marked by yesterday’s Appeal Court judgment.
“He was the only governor seeking a second term who chose to stay, hoping that the party leaders would demonstrate decorum and take appropriate action.
“In a recent series of meetings that lasted for weeks, Governor Lawal had informed stakeholders that he acknowledged their request to transition to the APC, but he would decide after the Appeal Court judgment.
“The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday dismissed an appeal by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the October 31 judgment by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the outcome of the national convention which held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16.
“The appellate judgment ended Governor Dauda Lawal’s stay in the People’s Democratic Party, prioritising the interests of Zamfara State. He joined the All Progressives Congress to sustain the Zamfara Rescue and Rebuild mission.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 10, 2026
IGR: GOV. LAWAL ABOLISHES CASH COLLECTION OF REVENUE IN ZAMFARA
Governor Dauda Lawal has ordered the abolition of cash revenue collection in Zamfara State to strengthen digital systems, harmonize databases across MDAs, enable real-time monitoring, and improve inter-agency verification to reduce leakage.
The governor issued the directive last Friday during a town hall awareness and sensitisation event on the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts 2025, organised by the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service in Gusau, the state capital.
A statement by the spokesperson of the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the town hall meeting themed ‘Diversifying revenue streams under a new tax regime: Exploring non-tax revenue opportunities in Zamfara State’ gathered all relevant stakeholders from across the state.
The statement added that the sensitization was intended to foster clear, structured dialogue and coordinated action as Zamfara prepares to implement the new tax framework.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts, 2025, restructured tax administration nationwide by clarifying boundaries, standardizing procedures, and promoting coordination among the three tiers of government.
He said, “In Zamfara State, the signing of the Repeal and Re-enactment of the Zamfara State Consolidated Revenue Law has strengthened the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service, granting it powers for assessment, collection, and accounting of state revenues. It also harmonizes tax and non-tax revenues and establishes a legal framework for effective tax administration and related matters.
“These reforms offer opportunity and responsibility. The opportunity is to develop a modern, efficient revenue system that supports growth, protects taxpayers, and boosts investor confidence. All government institutions are responsible for fully aligning with the new legal and administrative framework.
“Let me state clearly that revenue generation is a whole-of-government obligation, not a task for a single agency. Every Ministry, Department, and Agency that collects fees, charges, licences, permits, or service-related income must ensure transparency, accuracy, and prompt remittance through approved channels. Leakages, duplication, and informal collections undermine public confidence and will not be tolerated. This administration is committed to closing all loopholes and ensuring that revenues generated serve the intended developmental purpose.
“All revenue-generating MDAs must review their laws, collection tools, and procedures to ensure compliance. Overlaps should be removed, and ambiguities clarified. This will promote stability, effective compliance, and a culture of accountability.
“Beyond institutional alignment, the broader fiscal environment demands strengthened internal resilience. Zamfara State’s 2025 IGR figures show progress in revenue mobilization but highlight the need to improve revenue systems. Our IGR target of ₦38 – ₦42 billion is based on our reform agenda and expanding compliance framework.”
During the opening ceremony, key ministries, MDAs, and individuals were acknowledged and awarded for their leadership in revenue remittance in the state.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 01, 202
GOV. LAWAL HOLDS EMERGENCY SECURITY MEETING, SYMPATHISES WITH COMMUNITIES ATTACKED BY BANDITS IN ZAMFARA
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has offered his administration’s sympathies to the communities and families of victims affected by recent bandit attacks in various parts of the state.
On Friday, the governor convened and presided over an emergency meeting of the state security council in the Government House conference room in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, noted that the emergency security meeting was convened due to alarming recent security developments, specifically credible reports of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) being placed along certain highways.
He added that the governor tasked the heads of the security agencies in Zamfara with urgently reviewing the current security architecture and working together to develop a practical, well-designed, and clear operational framework to address the trend.
The statement read in parts, “In his administration’s resolve to end the insecurity affecting Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal convened an emergency security meeting with all heads of security agencies and relevant stakeholders in Zamfara State.
“The meeting demonstrates the shared commitment and collective responsibility of the state government and heads of security agencies to protect lives and properties in Zamfara State.
“During the meeting, Governor Lawal urged the heads of the security agencies in Zamfara to heightened vigilance, strengthened intelligence, and immediate, coordinated countermeasures.
“He charged the security to put more effort into ensuring that these elements did not gain further ground by staying ahead of them, denying them freedom of action, and decisively neutralising the threat.”
Governor Lawal further commiserated with the security agencies on the loss of brave personnel who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty and those who have sustained injuries while defending the people.
He also sympathised with the victims’ communities and families, assuring his administration’s support for affected communities and security agencies, with logistical, operational, and institutional backing to improve their effectiveness.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor February 28, 2026
A Historic Milestone for Digital Transformation in Zamfara State.
Today marks a truly significant moment for the future of technology and innovation in Zamfara State.
His Excellency, Dauda Lawal has officially signed into law the establishment of the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology, Gusau (ZIIT). This landmark legislation formally creates the legal and operational framework for an institute that will serve as a breeding ground for the next generation of technology professionals.
The establishment of ZIIT is more than the creation of a new institution—it is a bold statement of intent. It reflects the commitment of the Zamfara State Government to build a knowledge-driven economy, empower young people with cutting-edge digital skills, and position the state as a technology and innovation hub in Northern Nigeria.
With ZIIT, Zamfara will now play a pivotal role in developing highly skilled professionals in software development, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. The institute will serve not only Zamfara State, but the entire Northwest region and Northern Nigeria at large.
This milestone reinforces our collective vision of leveraging technology to drive economic growth, innovation, and inclusive development.
We congratulate His Excellency for this visionary leadership and commend all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality.
DRY SEASON: GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES FERTILIZERS AND FARM INPUTS TO ZAMFARA FARMERS
Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed fertilizers, inputs and other farm equipment to support dry-season farming across Zamfara State.
On Thursday, the governor officially launched the distribution at the Fadama III facility of the Ministry of Agriculture in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the inputs distributed are critical for improving crop yields, reducing losses, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
The statement added that the farm inputs and assets include 3,920 bags of NPK fertiliser, 1,956 bags of Urea fertiliser, 3,920 litres of herbicide, 1,956 litres of insecticide, and 3,920 sachets of seed-dressing chemical.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated that the programme is among the numerous measures his administration is taking to achieve its goal of increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and enhancing the livelihoods of the people of Zamfara.
He said, “We are all aware that farming is the backbone of our economy, and it is our responsibility to support farmers with the necessary resources to thrive. Distribution of these fertilizers, inputs, and other farm equipment is to bolster dry-season farming across the nation, including Zamfara State.
“NG-Cares programmes have provided the foundation for the State Government to achieve remarkable milestones in the agricultural sector. Farm Input support programmes conducted in the preceding years on dry-season farming in the State have reached tens of thousands of smallholder farmers, who also benefited from improved seeds, agrochemicals, and agronomic guidance.”
The governor further urged Zamfara farmers to make the most of this opportunity and use the inputs wisely.
“It is our ardent hope that these initiatives will provide the necessary impetus for sustainable agricultural development not only in Zamfara State but across the nation. Our administration will continue to leverage these programmes to sustainably produce food and reduce the country’s heavy reliance on food imports.
“It is a known fact that our challenges of today are mostly associated with insecurity. As we provide our farmers with these items, we will also continue to strengthen the security architecture of our communities to achieve our goals. We will also continue to provide similar interventions and develop new policies and programmes to address emerging challenges. Let us work together to secure our environments, cultivate and harvest more, and build a prosperous Zamfara State.
“Finally, I want to acknowledge the support of our development partners and the Federal Government of Nigeria for their commitment to the NG-CARES programme. There is no doubt that the NG-CARES programme has significantly improved yields, incomes, and food security by combining inputs with behavioural enablers, including seed adoption, advisory services, and peer learning.
“We are committed to cooperating with you to ensure seamless implementation of developmental policies and programmes initiated, particularly in the agricultural sector, for the overall development of our dear state.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor February 26, 2026
DEFENCE MINISTER COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL FOR PROVIDING ARMORED VEHICLES AND SURVEILLANCE DRONES TO ZAMFARA TROOPS
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for procuring armoured personnel carriers, surveillance drones, and operational equipment for troops in Zamfara State.
On Wednesday, the governor distributed armored vehicles and other operational equipment to troops at a ceremony held at the Government House, Gusau.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the highly 25 sophisticated Armored Personnel Carriers being procured and commissioned will enhance troop protection during deployments into high-risk areas across Zamfara.
The statement also noted that other equipment purchased by the Zamfara State Government includes an 80-meter endurance surveillance drone capable of covering 50 kilometers and operating continuously for eight hours.
Delivering his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal said the Defence Minister’s presence at the unveiling not only reinforces the depth of federal and Zamfara State synergy but also reflects a united front and collective resolve to establish and defend lawful authority.
He said, “For years, Zamfara State faced a security crisis disrupting life. Rural areas experienced instability, farmers faced uncertainty, and movement along key roads was cautious. Markets underperformed, affecting productivity, income, and confidence. These were widespread issues impacting daily life and the economy.
“Under our Rescue Mission, we moved from fragmented responses to structured reform. The Zamfara State Security Trust Fund provided a predictable framework for logistical support to security forces. We strengthened collaboration with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies through regular coordination. We implemented the Community Protection Guards in accordance with the law to enhance grassroots intelligence and early-warning capacity.
“These measures were designed to ensure that security intervention is supported by financing discipline, legal clarity, operational coordination and logistics facilitation. As an administration, we spare no expense to ensure the logistical support our security agencies on the ground receive.
“When we operationalised the Homegrown Community Protection Guards, we provided them with 60 Brand New and well-equipped Hilux operational vehicles and motorcycles to ensure adequate coverage, swift response and effective first responder services.
“The state government distributed 150 new Hilux vehicles to security forces, including the Nigeria Police, Department of Security Services, NSCDC, and others. Additionally, 20 Toyota Buffaloes were procured—10 armoured, and 10 soft-body. Over 600 specialised motorcycles have been provided for rapid response in tough terrain. These efforts have significantly contributed to recent successes.
“Beyond ground mobility, the integration of unmanned aerial systems expands reconnaissance reach. This is why we are also providing the drones. Aerial surveillance improves situational awareness, assists terrain assessment, and supports more precise coordination between command centres and field units. Real-time information strengthens decision-making and reduces operational blind spots.
“To the military commanders present today, these assets represent structured public investment and collective trust. Deployment must be intelligence-guided and strategically prioritised. Maintenance schedules must be strictly observed. Operational discipline must remain uncompromising. Long-term effectiveness depends on professional stewardship.
“To our officers and soldiers facing tough conditions, we honour your sacrifice and support your families. The government’s role goes beyond mere praise; it must provide the necessary protective and operational tools to enable you to perform effectively. Improving your safety also safeguards our communities.
Earlier, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), said that the procurement of the armoured vehicles by the Zamfara state government demonstrates the governor’s commitment. “From what I have seen, if we continue like this in the second term, Zamfara will look like Dubai.
“The protection of lives and properties rises above party lines, political affiliations and differences, and that is why I am particularly very happy to be here. That you have been a state executive who has done it for everyone, you are very distinct and very determined in what you are doing.
“It takes courage and firm conviction for subnational leadership to commit substantial resources towards strengthening public safety, and the best thing about this is that everything has been paid for. This sends a strong message to criminals.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor February 18, 2026
