News – Zamfara State Government

May 7 2025

ZAMFARA GOVERNMENT PARTNERS WITH ORACLE TO BOOST DIGITAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN LONDON

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOVERNMENT PARTNERS WITH ORACLE TO BOOST DIGITAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN LONDON

The Zamfara State Government has signed an Agreement with Oracle to invest in youth development, workforce capacity building, and the digital economy under Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative (SDI).

The Agreement was signed on Tuesday April 29, 2025 at Oracle’s Offices in London, United Kingdom.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that this work will foster collaboration between the Zamfara Information and Technology Development Agency (ZITDA) and Oracle.

The Zamfara State delegation, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, includes the Secretary to the State Government, two Special Advisers, and the Executive Secretary of ZITDA were present for the event, along with Siobhan Wilson, Oracle UK Country Leader and Senior Vice President, EMEA.

The statement read in parts: “Zamfara State Government has signed a strategic agreement with Oracle to drive digital skills development across the state. Facilitated through the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), the collaboration will use the expertise and learning services of both Oracle Academy and Oracle University in their digital transformation efforts.

“The collaboration signifies a commitment to education and a strategic investment in the future of Zamfara’s youth, workforce, and digital economy.
“Oracle Academy, Oracle’s global philanthropic educational program, offers a robust portfolio of technology education teaching and learning resources, including curriculum and software access, to educators and students worldwide.

“With the support of the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), these resources will be made available to validated higher education institutions across Zamfara.”

“ZITDA will help lead efforts to integrate Oracle Academy offerings into Zamfara’s higher education curriculum, equipping educators with the tools and resources they need to guide students in learning hands-on tech skills and toward Oracle professional certifications and foster a new generation of tech-savvy leaders.

“In addition, Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative (SDI), a global program that provides access to world-class learning and certification programs at no cost to eligible learners, will further expand opportunities for learners in Zamfara.

“Through a co-branded Learning Portal in collaboration with ZITDA, Oracle University plans to provide free access to digital learning paths and foundational certifications for eligible participants across Zamfara. This includes curated learning journeys offering over 200 hours of professional-level training in high-demand areas such as Cloud, AI, Data Science and APEX development.”

Trademarks
“Oracle, Java, MySQL and NetSuite are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. NetSuite was the first cloud company—ushering in the new era of cloud computing.”

In his remarks at the landmark signing of the agreement, Governor Dauda Lawal restated that the collaboration with Oracle is part of his administration’s commitment to transforming Zamfara into a hub of innovation, education, and digital excellence.

He said, “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Zamfara State, I extend my deepest appreciation to Oracle for believing in our vision and for partnering with us on this transformative journey.”

“What we are doing today goes beyond technology — it is about giving hope, creating opportunities, and unlocking the future. By investing in digital education and innovation, we are offering real alternatives to poverty, to joblessness, and to despair.”

“I sincerely thank Oracle for standing with us — believing in the power of partnership, purpose, and shared dreams. Today, we are not just signing a document; we are making a promise: “A promise that every child in Zamfara will have a fair chance to dream, to learn, and to succeed. A promise that technology will be our bridge to a stronger, more inclusive economy. And a promise that Zamfara will not merely participate in the digital revolution — we will lead it.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 07, 2025

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Apr 26 2025

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES PROMOTED NSCDC OFFICERS OF ZAMFARA ORIGIN

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES PROMOTED NSCDC OFFICERS OF ZAMFARA ORIGIN

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has received ten decorated officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) who are indigenes of Zamfara State

The promoted officers were led by the NSCDC Commander, Zone 2, ACG Haruna Bala Zurmi, on a courtesy visit to the governor in the government house, Gusau, on Thursday.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the decorated senior officers of the NSCDC were a source of pride to the people of Zamfara and a sign that the future is bright.

The statement added that the officers were promoted and decorated to their respective strategic ranks in the Corps; three (3) were promoted to the rank of Assistant Commandant General (ACGs), while the remaining seven were promoted to the Rank of Commandant of the Corps (CCs).

During his remarks, Governor Dauda Lawal encouraged the officers to keep making Zamfara proud as they serve the nation.

He said, “We are all concerned about Zamfara because we don’t have another place we call home. When you retire from service, you will return here; therefore, our collective duty is to make Zamfara great.

“With all of you, with the understanding, goodwill, and cooperation I am receiving, we are going to see progress in our state.

“The Commandant is a very good friend of Zamfara State. I want to take this opportunity to thank him for the immense assistance he has rendered to us in our fight against insecurity.

“When I heard about your promotion, I was eager to meet you, at least to organize a dinner in your honor, which we will definitely do. Most importantly, I am happy for your achievement; it is for the people of Zamfara.

“As I mentioned, we share a collective responsibility to develop Zamfara. We will keep the lines of communication open so that any challenges we encounter will be shared with you, allowing for your valuable input. My door is always open to suggestions, recommendations, and constructive criticisms. Feel free to share. A better Zamfara means happiness for all of us. Thank you for the visit, and congratulations.”

Earlier, the delegation leader and NSCDC Commander of Zone 2, ACG Haruna Bala Zurmi, stated that Governor Lawal’s administration’s contribution enabled their promotion, noting that it has never occurred in the corps’ history for a state to have 10 officers promoted in a single promotion exercise.

“It is to our strong belief that the gesture by the Commandant General wasn’t unconnected to the unflinching support and assistance the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Zamfara State command receives under your administration and able stewardship. We are here for your blessings and familiarization.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 26, 2025

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Apr 23 2025

UNDP COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T SETS PACE FOR OTHER STATES ON COUNTERPART FUNDING

PRESS STATEMENT

UNDP COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL, SAYS ZAMFARA GOV’T SETS PACE FOR OTHER STATES ON COUNTERPART FUNDING

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has praised Governor Dauda Lawal for his commitment to providing counterpart funding to benefit the people of Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the UNDP launched the Northwest Prevention Facility Project at the Garba Nadama Hall in the State Secretariat, Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the project includes distributing irrigation equipment to 300 farmers carefully selected based on their needs.

The statement added that 1,000 entrepreneurs will receive a start-up capital of N150,000 each, aiming to transform their business ideas into thriving enterprises across Zamfara State.

In his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal restated that upon his assumption of office, his administration initiated several empowerment programs and created opportunities to achieve his rescue mission agenda.

“These initiatives are not isolated efforts. Part of our broader vision for a prosperous Zamfara State is to engage development partners to address our numerous socio-economic challenges.

“Many poverty reduction programmes introduced by this administration have impacted the lives of thousands of our citizens. Our administration’s commitment to poverty alleviation is unwavering. We shall continue leveraging strategic partnerships with the UNDP and other donor groups to create sustainable pathways to lift our people out of poverty.

“From the inception of this program, I made it clear that a transparent and inclusive selection process shall be the yardstick of choice of beneficiaries. The beneficiaries, therefore, were drawn from towns and villages such as Sankalawa, Furfuri, Karal, Gusau, and Bungudu.

“I have consistently emphasized that economic empowerment must be inclusive under our purview, leaving no community behind. That is why I insisted on the equitable distribution of opportunities across all local government areas.

“Equally, comprehensive training programmes were held for all beneficiaries of Irrigation farming and SMEs. We firmly believe that providing resources without knowledge could limit the sustainable impact the programme aims to achieve.”

Governor Lawal further extended gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme for believing in his administration’s shared vision for development. “To the beneficiaries, I charge you to utilize these resources responsibly. The faith I have placed in you must be justified.

“With these remarks, it is my honour to officially flag off the distribution of irrigation inputs to 300 beneficiaries and disbursement of start-up capital of N150,000.00 to 1,000 entrepreneurs.”

Earlier, the Head of the Office of UNDP Northwest Nigeria, Ashraf Usman, expressed that the effectiveness, desire, and determination of the Zamfara State Government are evident to all, which is crucial for the partnership.

“Thank you, Your Excellency. These are the reasons why we are here. Congratulations to you for supporting such a large number of people. Thank you for sitting idly and setting an example for other state governments in providing counterparts funding. Thank you for your leadership.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 23, 2025

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Apr 13 2025

NIGERIAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS GOV. LAWAL FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

NIGERIAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS GOV. LAWAL FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN ZAMFARA

The Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) has recognized Governor Dauda Lawal with its prestigious leadership and community service award.

On Saturday, the chamber celebrated its 65th anniversary, inaugurated its 20th president, and honored deserving Americans and Nigerians with awards at the Lagos Continental Hotel in Lagos state.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce is a trade organization that operates on a membership basis and is Nigeria’s first bilateral chamber of commerce.

The statement added that Governor Lawal was honored by the chamber alongside the Governors of Akwa Ibom, Kaduna, and Lagos state.

“Yesterday in Lagos, the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) held its 65th anniversary with the inauguration of Alhaji Sheriff Balogun as the 20th President of the chamber.

“The event with the theme ‘The Power of Cooperation: 65 Years of Optimizing Nigerian-American Economic Relations’ was attended by high-level American and Nigerian officials and the business community.

“The chamber acknowledged Governor Lawal’s support for commerce in Zamfara State, particularly in agriculture.

“The award presented to the governor is in recognition of his outstanding leadership skills, academic credentials, and strong commitment to tackling insecurity.

“The chamber also commended Governor Dauda Lawal for making the lives of the Zamfara people better by prioritizing healthcare delivery, education, agriculture, and empowerment initiatives.”

While accepting the award, Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated his commitment to enhancing the lives of the people of Zamfara State through improved service delivery.

“I want to thank the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce leadership for finding me worthy of this recognition. It will encourage me to do more. This is for all the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 13, 2025

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Apr 9 2025

GOV. LAWAL MOURNS ZAMFARA ASSEMBLY MEMBER, HON. AMINU K/DAJI

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL MOURNS ZAMFARA ASSEMBLY MEMBER, HON. AMINU K/DAJI

Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hon. Aminu Ibrahim Kasuwar Daji, a member representing Kauran Namoda South in the Zamfara State House of Assembly.

Family sources revealed that Hon. Aminu Kasuwar Daji died in his sleep in the early hours of Wednesday in the Kauran Namoda local government.

A statement issued by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, extended condolences to the leadership of the Zamfara State House of Assembly and the family of the deceased.

The statement added that a delegation of the state government, led by the deputy governor, Mallam Mani Mummuni, attended the burial of the late Aminu K/Daji in Kauran Namoda.

“On behalf of the state government, we wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the Speaker, Principal Officers of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, family, and the people of Kauran Namoda South.

“In this moment of sorrow, we extend our prayers that Allah provides the bereaved family with the strength needed during this grieving period.

“We also pray for Allah to forgive any shortcomings of the deceased and grant him eternal peace.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 09, 2025

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Apr 2 2025

GOVERNOR LAWAL TOURS MINING SITES IN ANKA AND MARU LGA, PROMISES REVENUE BOOST AS SECURITY IMPROVES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL TOURS MINING SITES IN ANKA AND MARU LGA, PROMISES REVENUE BOOST AS SECURITY IMPROVES IN ZAMFARA

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has assured that there will be an increase in revenue following the significant improvements in security across the state.

On Wednesday, the governor toured sites and mining factories in the Anka and Maru Local Government Areas.

A statement by the spokesperson for the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the tour aimed to explore the vast resources in Zamfara State and create additional revenue-generating opportunities.

“Today, Governor Dauda Lawal has begun a tour of mining sites and factories, starting with a visit to Comet Star Industry, a private mining company located in the Anka Local Government Area.

“The factory, owned by Prince James Uduji OON, processes approximately 1,000 tons daily. It is fully equipped with the latest mining technology to ensure efficient operations.

“While at the factory, Governor Lawal toured the site, starting from the discharge bay, where the soil is received, and continuing to the crusher section, conveyor belt, and shaking table.

“Governor Lawal also visited various locations within the factory, including the Powerhouse, which provides electricity for the entire company, and the laboratory where products are processed.”

In his remarks immediately after the tour, Governor Lawal expressed satisfaction with the factory’s standard, stating that it is the type of investment the state government is seeking.

“I am delighted today because this clearly shows the improvement in security in Zamfara State. I would like to appreciate the troops and all stakeholders who are working tirelessly to bring about peace.

“More importantly, discussions are ongoing between the Federal Government, State Government, the private sector, and the communities to understand our assets and identify where we have a comparative advantage. This state is blessed with solid minerals. If we can get it right, I assure you that we will improve revenue and rapidly develop Zamfara.”

In Maru LGA, Governor Lawal promised the state government’s full support to artisanal miners, ensuring they operate within legal regulations.

He promised to provide essential tools to the artisanal miners to stop environmental degradation.

“We are collaborating with the federal government and are taking specific steps to implement necessary measures. I will direct the environment commissioner to meet with you so that everyone can register. By registering, we will be able to maintain a proper record.

“The state government will provide you with the necessary support, including securing a small-scale mining lease from the Federal Government, but you must form cooperative societies.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
April 02, 2025

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Mar 30 2025

EIDL FITR: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PREACHES UNITY AND PEACE

PRESS STATEMENT

EIDL FITR: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PREACHES UNITY AND PEACE

Governor Dauda Lawal has appealed to the people of Zamfara State to embrace unity and peace.A statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, felicitates the Muslim community for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan fasting.He urged the Muslim community in Zamfara State and beyond to reflect deeply on the sacrifices and devotion to Allah made during Ramadan.He said: “My dear Muslim brothers and sisters in Zamfara State and beyond, I extend the compliments of the seasons and my heartfelt congratulations as we mark the end of the year 1446 AH Ramadan fast. This holy month has been a time of deep reflection, sacrifice, and devotion to Allah (SWT).“As we celebrate the Eid-el Fitr, I urge every one of us to carry forward the virtues of discipline, patience, and generosity that Ramadan has instilled in us.“The challenges before us are enormous and require collective effort and cooperation to be addressed. Let us therefore set aside our differences, work together as one people, and support the government’s agenda for rescuing and rebuilding our dear State.”Governor Lawal also appreciated the efforts of religious and community leaders for their continued guidance in advancing harmony and promoting the values that bind people together.“As we gather with our loved ones to mark this joyous occasion, let us put our state in prayers for divine intervention as we work round the clock to address the myriad challenges facing our dear state. May Allah (SWT) accept our acts of worship, forgive our shortcomings, and bless our State and the nation at large with lasting peace and prosperity. EID MUBARAK”SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor April 1st, 2025

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Mar 11 2025

YOUR MANDATES ALIGN WITH MY ADMINISTRATION’S RESCUE AGENDA, ZAMFARA GOV. TELLS NORTHWEST DEV. COMMISSION

PRESS STATEMENT

YOUR MANDATES ALIGN WITH MY ADMINISTRATION’S RESCUE AGENDA, ZAMFARA GOV. TELLS NORTHWEST DEV. COMMISSION

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed that the Northwest Development Commission’s mandates align with his administration’s six-point rescue agenda.

The governor hosted the management of the Northwest Development Commission for a courtesy visit at the council chamber in the government house, Gusau.

Last year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu scrapped the Niger Delta Development Ministry and the Ministry of Sports Development with the creation of the Ministry of Regional Development.

The newly created ministry is mandated to oversee all the regional development commissions, such as Niger Delta Development Commission, Northwest Development Commission, Southwest Development Commission, and Northeast Development Commission.

In his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal commended President Tinubu for establishing the Northwest Development Commission.

“When His Excellency, President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, GCFR, assented to the bill establishing the Northwest Development Commission last year, I believe I was the happiest person in the country.

“Zamfara has been at the bottom of almost all developmental indices in the country and faces multi-faceted threats and challenges. With that in mind, I thank Mr. President again for this laudable initiative to revive the northwest region.”

Governor Lawal said that the visit by members of the commission presents an invaluable opportunity for collaboration in a shared vision to fast-track development in Zamfara state, one of the critical yet disadvantaged states in the northwest region.

“Your mandates align with my administration’s six-point rescue agenda: security, agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.

“I would like to assure you that we remain committed to working with your commission to ensure that you deliver on your mandate for the overall development of the Zamfara state and northwest, which forms the most prominent political block in the country. My administration will provide you with all the necessary support you may require to facilitate your activities in the state.

“On a final note, I welcome you to Zamfara State as I look forward to witnessing the immediate takeoff of your responsibilities in the state as outlined in your agenda, which include addressing insecurity and ecological issues, among others. I believe that addressing some of Zamfara’s challenges, especially insecurity – rooted in poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy, among others – will translate into peace, stability, and general development of the region and the country at large.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the Northwest Development Commission, Alhaji Lawan Isma’ila Abdullahi Yakawada, stated that Zamfara State feels like home to him due to his strong relationship with the governor and the people of the state.

“We are here for a courtesy visit to get acquainted. I told my colleagues that if it’s Zamfara, it’s easier for us than even Kaduna because I feel at home here.

“Your Excellency, this commission is your baby; fortunately, the Northwest is the biggest zone in the country. The challenges we face are vast. We have a 10-year development plan of what the zone intends to achieve.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 11, 2025

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Mar 6 2025

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN NEW ZAMFARA HEAD OF SERVICE, 12 PERM. SECS, CREATES OFFICE FOR DONOR PROGRAMS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN NEW ZAMFARA HEAD OF SERVICE, 12 PERM. SECS, CREATES OFFICE FOR DONOR PROGRAMS

Governor Dauda Lawal has sworn in Yakubu Sani Haidara, mni, as the newly appointed head of the Civil Service of Zamfara State, along with 12 new permanent secretaries.

The swearing-in ceremony, which marks the beginning of the tenure of the new Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries, took place on Thursday in the old chamber of the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Coordinator of Donor Activities and Programs office has also been established under the Executive Governor’s office.

The statement added that the newly created office will be headed by a Permanent Secretary, reporting directly to the governor. “The main role of the Permanent Secretary is coordinating all donor/ developmental partner activities and programs, in conjunction with implementing MDAs.”

In his speech at the swearing-in, Governor Lawal referred to the newly appointed Head of Service as a distinguished bureaucrat with an outstanding administrative career spanning over three decades.

“Your appointment is a recognition of your capacity and dedication to public service. This new role presents an opportunity to deploy your wealth of experience in repositioning the civil service towards greater efficiency, productivity, and purposeful service delivery.

“As the Head of Service, you are responsible for driving forward the current public service reforms initiated by this administration. These reforms aim to build a more effective and responsive system capable of meeting the needs and aspirations of the people of Zamfara State.

“You are entrusted with supervising the Permanent Secretaries and the entire civil service to ensure that government policies and programs are effectively formulated and implemented.”

The governor also noted that the Permanent Secretaries’ appointment results from a thorough and transparent process. This involved an intensive refresher course, written exams, oral interviews, and ICT-based tests, culminating in a professional assessment by the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN).

“The decision to reform the appointment processes of Permanent Secretaries in the state to conform with current standards of service and best practice is informed by our desire to entrench merit rather than arbitrariness and favoritism as a tool for career advancement in the state civil service.

“We believe that to reform the public service, which is the central institution of policy formulation and government implementation, competence and professionalism must be the topmost priority. Alhamdulillah, with this exercise, we have set the necessary standard to sustain In sha Allah.

“Having taken the oath of office as Permanent Secretaries of Zamfara State Government, you should understand that your roles are critical to the successful implementation of the objectives of our administration; I believe that by your intellects and proven capacities, you will rise to the occasion with diligence and a sense of responsibility.

“As the accounting officers in your respective ministries and posts, you are expected to align your actions with the six points agenda of this administration and ensure that every policy and program under your supervision contributes to 4 the realization of the objectives of our mission of delivering good governance to the people of Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 06, 2025

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Mar 6 2025

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL RECEIVES CHIEF OF AIR STAFF, COMMENDS AIR FORCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COLLABORATION WITH TROOPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL RECEIVES CHIEF OF AIR STAFF, COMMENDS AIR FORCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COLLABORATION WITH TROOPS

Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to more collaboration with the troops operating in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor hosted Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, during his official visit to Zamfara.

The Air Force Chief visited Zamfara regarding the airstrike incident that resulted in the deaths of 11 civilians near Gidan Makera in the Zurmi local government area on January 11, 2025.

The civilian casualties were members of the local vigilante who were mistakenly identified as the bandits fleeing precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma.

In his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal commended the Airforce’s timely response to distress calls in volatile areas across Zamfara State.

“I want to express my appreciation for the Chief of the Air Staff, who, before his visit today, sent a strong delegation led by one of the most senior officers from the headquarters to commiserate with us and the people of Zamfara. He sent a delegation to Zamfara on two separate occasions.

“I want to reiterate that when the incident occurred, we addressed the media, clarifying that it was not intentional but rather an accident. The presence of the Chief of Air Staff in Zamfara reflects exceptional professionalism and concern.

The governor noted that the Nigerian Air Force is crucial in combating banditry in Zamfara, Northwest, and the entire nation. “I appreciate the Chief of the Air Staff for the Air Force’s contributions. They promptly respond whenever we reach out.

“We are clear about our stance. We have made it known to every listening ear that we are not ready and will never negotiate with the bandits. You can all attest that our position is paying off, as we are beginning to see results with peace gradually returning to Zamfara.

“I would like to take this opportunity to inform the Air Marshal that we are constructing an airport in Zamfara. I appeal that once the airport is completed, we would like an Air Force hangar to ensure swift operations in the state.

“We will keep contacting you because we need the Air Force. We can’t thank you enough for making this visit. For us in Zamfara, it’s a significant morale booster that you traveled all the way from Abuja. From our side, I assure you that we will keep engaging with you and do everything possible to support the troops fighting banditry. I wish you a safe flight back to Abuja.”

Earlier, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Governor Dauda Lawal for his cooperation in addressing the tragic situation of the accidental airstrike that occurred in Zamfara.

“You may recall that on January 11, 2025, airstrikes were carried out in Zamfara following an intelligence report of bandit activity in Gidan Makera in Maradun LGA. The area was targeted in pursuit of the terrorists associated with bandit Bello Turji. A few days after the strike, a news report claimed that the airstrike had mistakenly hit members of a vigilante group.

“Deeply concerned by the allegation, I immediately constituted a committee for a holistic assessment and investigation of the alleged strike. The fact-finding team has since submitted their report and findings, which confirmed that 11 members of the local vigilante were unintentionally killed.

“Our visit this morning is to express our sympathy to you, the families of the victims, and the good people of Zamfara regarding the tragic incident.”

The governor and the Chief of Air Staff held a private meeting with the families of the airstrike victims, along with 11 others who were injured.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
March 06, 2025

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