News – Zamfara State Government

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

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Apr 1 2026

Zamafara State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology – Invitation for Bids

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Mar 24 2026

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR PARTICIPATES IN COVENTRY UNIVERSITY’S STRATEGIC GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR PARTICIPATES IN COVENTRY UNIVERSITY’S STRATEGIC GOVERNANCE WORKSHOP

Governor Dauda Lawal will attend a high-level workshop on strategic governance and resilience as part of his administration’s broader initiatives to improve Zamfara.

The workshop organised by the Centre for Resilient Business and Society is scheduled for March 30 and 31, 2026, at Coventry University in the United Kingdom.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the high-level workshop is supported under the United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) Institutional Support framework.

He added that the workshop also reflects a shared commitment to advancing research-driven solutions for governance, resilience, and societal development in institutions in Zamfara State.

The statement read in parts, “Governor Lawal is on Sunday set to travel to the United Kingdom for a two-day strategic governance workshop hosted by Coventry University.

“The workshop brings together global scholars, policymakers, and governance experts to explore methods for building resilient institutions and addressing societal challenges through research and data-driven solutions.

“Key sessions during the two-day workshop include Resilient Leadership in Dynamic and Resource-Limited Settings, Financial Resilience, Public Sector Innovation, Managing Change, and Ethical Data Use in Governance.

“Governor Lawal is joined by a high-ranking delegation that includes the Secretary to the State Government, key commissioners, special advisers, and the Executive Secretary of the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA).

“As part of the engagement, the governor and his team will hold an interactive session with postgraduate research (PGR) students on the theme: ‘The Role of Research in Policymaking: Driving Strategic and Resilient Governance – Lessons from the Six-Point Rescue Agenda.”

“The session will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on how research can move beyond theory to shape policy decisions and deliver measurable impact, while drawing practical lessons from the implementation of Zamfara State’s Six-Point Rescue Agenda.

“Zamfara State’s participation highlights the government’s commitment to integrating research and data into governance. This approach supports the Six-Point Rescue Agenda, focusing on security, peacebuilding, agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 29, 2026

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Mar 24 2026

ZAMFARA STANDSTILL AS VP SHETTIMA, 10 GOVERNORS WELCOME GOVERNOR LAWAL TO APC

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA STANDSTILL AS VP SHETTIMA, 10 GOVERNORS WELCOME GOVERNOR LAWAL TO APC

The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, led 10 governors, including the party chairman, to formally welcome Governor Dauda Lawal to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Vice President welcomed the governor, assembly members, cabinet members, and thousands of supporters to the APC during a grand reception on Tuesday at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Vice President arrived at the newly constructed Gusau International Airport.

The statement added that the governors who graced the occasion include those of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Dikko Radda (Katsina), Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Hope Odidika Uzodinma (Imo).

Also in attendance were the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas, the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, APC Governors Forum Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, as well as ministers, party chieftains, and other dignitaries.

In his speech, the Vice President said the end of insecurity in Nigeria was in sight, as President Tinubu was working hard to ensure that peace is sustained across the country.

He prayed for greater unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence under the Tinubu administration, assuring that the President is doing all he can to secure lives and property across the nation.

“We pray for more unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because as our leader is working very hard to ensure the safety of lives and property across Nigeria,” he said.

He said the security challenges in Zamfara State and other troubled states would be addressed, adding that Governor Lawal’s entry into the APC would help achieve that.

The VP said opposition parties like the ADC, PDP, and others will not thrive in Zamfara State because all major politicians in the state are knitted together.

He expressed full support for Governor Lawal, applauding the people of the state for their support for their governor and the APC.

Also, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Uzodimma, said governors elected on the APC platform were happy to welcome Governor Lawal into their fold.

“It is a win-win situation for Zamfara. APC is a moving train, and we are happy that the State has joined that train. All Governors of APC will support Governor Lawal to do more for this State,” he said.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal assured party leaders and supporters of his commitment to ensuring fairness and justice for everyone. He also pledged to continue working diligently for the people of Zamfara State.

Former governors of Zamfara State, including Abdulaziz Yari, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and Mahmuda Shinkafi, attended the event. They offered their full support and agreed to work with Governor Lawal.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 24, 2026

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Mar 23 2026

ZAMFARA 2027: GOV. LAWAL DIRECTS ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS SEEKING POLITICAL OFFICES TO RESIGN

PRESS STATEMENT

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

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Mar 22 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

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Mar 19 2026

EID-EL FITR: GOV. LAWAL URGES MUSLIMS TO INTENSIFY PRAYERS FOR PEACE

PRESS STATEMENT

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

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Mar 16 2026

ZAMFARA GOVERNOR IN TINUBU’S DELEGATION FOR HISTORIC UK STATE VISIT

PRESS STATEMENT

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

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