Zamfara Deepens Global Tech Partnerships at the Digital Government Africa Summit!
On Day 2 of the Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, Governor Dauda Lawal led Zamfara Delegation in a series of strategic roundtable engagements with leading technology companies exploring potential partnerships to advance the State’s ICT sector.
In a major highlight of the day, the Zamfara State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)with NetOne Neo Technology Limited for the development of Zamfara’s IT Ecosystem and Value Chain — a landmark step towards building a robust, innovative, and sustainable digital economy.
Governor Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to digital transformation, innovation-driven governance, and public-private collaboration as key drivers of Zamfara’s socio-economic growth.
Governor Dauda Lawal is leading a high-powered delegation at the Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka, Zambia. He delivered a keynote address alongside His Excellency, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia.
Governor Lawal’s address highlights Zamfara’s remarkable digital transformation journey— from building a strong digital governance ecosystem to deploying innovative public service platforms that enhance transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement.
The address also showcases emerging opportunities for global partnerships in advancing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), e-Governance, and Digital Literacy, reinforcing Zamfara’s commitment to becoming a model for digital innovation and inclusive development in Africa.
President Hichilema congratulated Governor Dauda Lawal for launching the first state-level digital literacy programme in Nigeria, the Zamfara Digital Literary Framework (ZDLF), positioning Zamfara as a model of digital transformation.
GOV. LAWAL UNVEILS 50 NEW 18-SEATER BUSES, SAYS IT MARKS THE REBIRTH OF ZAMFARA TRANSPORT COMPANY
Governor Dauda Lawal described the unveiling of 50 buses as a fulfillment of a promise and a legacy, demonstrating Zamfara State’s commitment to greatness and excellence.
The Governor unveiled fifty brand-new, luxury eighteen-seater buses for the Zamfara State Transport Company on Thursday, in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the 50 brand-new commercial buses are modern, air-conditioned vehicles designed for comfort and safety.
The statement added that the buses were equipped with cushioned interiors, fitted with seatbelts, and featured reliable suspension for rough roads, as well as GPS tracking devices that enabled real-time monitoring of their location and performance.
In his remarks at the unveiling, Governor Lawal reiterated that the event marked a new chapter in Zamfara State’s journey, defined by a determination to leave behind the habits of waste and mismanagement and to embrace a new spirit of discipline, accountability, and progress.
He said, “Many have asked why it took time between the arrival of these buses and their proper deployment to commence operation? In the past, Governments might have rushed to inaugurate them immediately, content with the ceremonies of ribbon-cutting without addressing the deeper structures that ensure sustainability.
“But my administration is different. We do not rush where caution is required. We are not satisfied with mere symbolism when the substance of governance is at stake. That delay was deliberate.
“We chose to first put in place proper frameworks of accountability, monitoring, and management so that what you see here will last and will not descend into the fate that befell vehicles procured in years gone by.
“The history of public transport in Zamfara State is full of examples of neglect. Vehicles procured with public funds often ended up being diverted for private use, parked in the compounds of a select few, reduced to rubble by reckless driving, or abandoned because no maintenance plan had been implemented.
“What was meant for the masses became the toy of the few. We resolved that, under our watch, such misuse will never be tolerated again. These buses will remain on the roads, serving the people who paid for them with their trust, their taxes, and their hope.”
The governor stressed that his administration goes beyond procuring machines, saying the government invested in people.
“In recent months, Zamfara State Transport Company staff—including management, drivers, mechanics, ticketing officers, and admin workers—underwent a comprehensive capacity-building program. It focused on technical skills, ethics, service, and modern transport management methods.
“When transportation is broken, society is broken. By strengthening transportation, we strengthen the entire web of life in our state.
“Our Zamfara, in Northwest Nigeria, links to Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Abuja, Bauchi, and Gombe, serving as vital routes for commerce, education, healthcare, and social ties. Placing buses here improves local mobility and connects residents to the wider nation. Traders access broader markets, students attend institutions efficiently, families stay connected, and civil servants travel for work smoothly.
“As we commission these buses, I call upon the people of Zamfara to embrace them, to patronize them, to protect them. Public property must not be vandalized, abused, or neglected. A bus scratched, a seat torn, a window broken is not a loss to the Government but a loss to us all. Let us cultivate a new ethic of collective ownership. Just as these buses are public, so must our sense of responsibility be public.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor October 02, 2025
NORTH MUST SPEAK WITH ONE VOICE ON SECURITY AND ECONOMY, SAYS ZAMFARA GOVERNOR
Governor Dauda Lawal urged a binding commitment among the 19 northern states to speak with one voice on security and economic matters.
The governor chaired the first day of the Northern Nigeria Investment and Industrialization Summit on Monday at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the investment summit was organized by the Northern Elders Forum, led by Professor Ango Abdullahi.
The statement added that the theme of the summit, “Unlocking Strategic Opportunities’ gathered all relevant stakeholders across the Northern part of Nigeria.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal commended the Northern Elders Forum for its consistent commitment to the progress of the Northern region.
“By convening this gathering under the theme ‘Unlocking Strategic Opportunities,’ you have once again demonstrated a clear-eyed focus on our collective future.
“The choice of sectors—Mining, Agriculture, and Power—is not accidental. It is a strategic diagnosis of the core pillars upon which the prosperity of Northern Nigeria must be built. In Zamfara, we are aware of the paradox we face: a land blessed with immense mineral wealth and vast arable land, yet our people have not fully reaped the dividends of these endowments.
“The key question for us as leaders is not what needs to be done, but how we can collectively turn potential into prosperity. To attract necessary investment and industrialize our region for the nation’s benefit, we must move beyond rhetoric and adopt a new approach of collaboration.”
Governor Lawal further stressed that a safe North is a bankable North, a region that leaders across the 19 Northern States must deepen collaboration beyond politics.
“We must collectively secure people and investments. Security is the fundamental prerequisite for any meaningful development. Investors, both domestic and international, are not philanthropists; they are realists. They will not commit capital where it is not safe. We must integrate our security architectures, share intelligence in real-time, and foster greater community policing to create a secure and predictable environment.
“In Zamfara, our commitment is clear. We are moving from a past of informality and illegality in the mining sector to a regime of formalization, regulation, and value addition. We are revitalizing our agricultural sector by promoting mechanization, agro-processing, and access to credit. And we are creating the secure and stable environment that is the bedrock of it all.
“My call to action today is for a Northern Nigerian Economic Compact—a binding commitment among the 19 states to speak with one voice on security and economic matters. Create a Single Window for major investors looking to do business across the region. Co-invest in critical infrastructure like power, rail, and fibre optics that connect our states.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 29, 2025
GOV. LAWAL ADDRESSES CANADA-AFRICA TRADE EXPO, SAYS AFRICA NEEDS GENUINE COLLABORATION, NOT CHARITY
Governor Dauda Lawal said that Africa does not seek charity, but rather authentic collaboration based on mutual respect, fairness, and shared values.
The governor served as the keynote speaker at the Canada-Africa Trade and Investment Expo 2025, held on September 17, 2025, at the Toronto Marriott City Hotel in Canada.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the trade expo, themed ‘Strengthening Canada-Africa Partnerships in Trade, Investment, and Sustainable Growth,’ unites the two continents through shared goals of prosperity, innovation, and sustainability despite their distance.
The statement added that Governor Lawal highlighted that Canada’s democratic traditions, robust economy, responsible mining, and innovative private sector make it a natural partner for Africa.
He said: “If Africa is to realize its potential fully, we must recognize that development is not just a matter of national policy; it is also a function of sub-national action.
“While our Federal Governments provide policy direction, it is within our States, provinces, and Local Governments that the promises of trade, investment, and growth must be translated into tangible realities.
“Sub-national Governments are the places where farmers cultivate the crops that feed nations, where mining operations either succeed or fail, where young people seek opportunities, and where investors look for clarity, stability, and fair return. This is why my presence here as Governor of Zamfara is not incidental, but deliberate. It underscores the fact that Africa’s renaissance will be driven as much by its States and provinces as by its capitals.”
The governor further stated that his government is deliberately reshaping the governance in Zamfara State and the investment climate to attract responsible partners who share the values of transparency, accountability, and sustainability.
“Agriculture is central to our economy. With over 70% of its land arable, Zamfara could become a food basket for Nigeria and the African continent. We seek partnerships in mechanization, irrigation, post-harvest management, storage, and agro-industrial chains. Canadian expertise, paired with our farmers’ resilience, can set a new food security model for Africa.
“Beyond agriculture, Zamfara has solid minerals like gold, lithium, manganese, and granite vital for energy transition. We aim to learn from past mistakes, ensuring resource wealth translates to prosperity, not just extraction. We are strengthening regulations, promoting responsible mining, and benefiting local communities.
“I urge Canadian friends to look beyond Africa’s capitals to its heartlands, its farms, schools, industries, and communities, where true partnerships will thrive. Encourage African leaders, including myself, to reform, strengthen governance, uphold transparency, and foster an environment for partnerships.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 18, 2025
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE ZAMFARA STATE GOVERNMENT JB Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau
PRESS STATEMENT
GOVERNOR LAWAL ESTABLISH PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES BOARD IN ZAMFARA
In fulfilment of his administration’s commitment to social welfare and inclusive governance, His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal, has approved the establishment of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities Board.
Announcing the development, the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, explained that the establishment of the Board follows the recent amendment of the State law designed to safeguard the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), protect them from any form of discrimination, and promote equal access to opportunities in every aspect of society.
Key amendments to the law include the substitution of the board’s ‘Chairman’ with ‘Executive Chairman’; the ‘Executive Secretary’ with ‘Secretary’ and ‘part-time members’ with full-time members. The amended law has also made it mandatory for the members of the board to be among the PWDs to ensure that all activities of the board serve the interests of the targeted groups.
Governor Lawal has appointed Alhaji Usman Ahmed Nahuche as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the newly established Board. Alhaji Nahuche, a retired Permanent Secretary from the state civil service and a member of the Deaf cluster, brings extensive experience in governance and advocacy.
Other members of the Board appointed include Hajiya Amina B.M. Audu (Spinal Cords cluster), Tukur Abdullahi (Deaf cluster), Babangida Umar Shinkafi (physically challenged), Umar Babangida Ahmed (Blind cluster), Binta Namadi (Rep of women), and Sani Abubakar as member.
The establishment of the Board reflects Governor Lawal’s unwavering commitment to social justice, equity and inclusivity. It reaffirms his belief that Persons with Disabilities possess unique talents and potential that can be harnessed for the overall progress and development of Zamfara state.
His Excellency has charged the appointees to work diligently towards uplifting the living standards of PWDs across the State. He also expressed appreciation to all development partners and stakeholders who supported the process of amending the law, reiterating his administration’s readiness to sustain collaborations that will enhance the well-being of the people of Zamfara.
Suleman Ahmad Tudu Senior Special Assistant (Media) Office of the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government.
GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES 408,137 TEACHING AND LEARNING MATERIALS TO ZAMFARA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Governor Dauda Lawal has procured 408,137 teaching and learning materials for distribution to public schools across Zamfara State.
The distribution’s flag-off ceremony was held on Friday at the Teacher Training and Development Centre (TTDC), Bypass Road, Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the flag-off is about more than handing out books; it is about keeping Zamfara on a path of recovery, renewal, and progress through education.
The statement noted that additional materials to be distributed were provided as support by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and UNICEF.
In his remarks at the flag-off, Governor Lawal reiterated that his administration came into office with the mandate to rescue and rebuild.
He said: “From the very beginning, we recognised that the most effective way to restore Zamfara is to invest in the minds of our people.
“Today, as part of this commitment, I am pleased to announce the distribution of 408,137 teaching and learning materials procured directly by the Zamfara State Government.
“This is one of the largest single investments in instructional resources our state has ever witnessed. It reflects our conviction that teachers cannot succeed without the right tools, and pupils cannot learn without adequate materials.
“But this effort has not been ours alone. We acknowledge with gratitude the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) partnership, which has provided 77,609 teaching and learning materials to complement our state government’s initiative.
“Their contribution is a reminder that development is best achieved when governments at different levels work in synergy, united by the common good of the people.
“We thank our development partners, especially UNICEF, for providing 5,000 Climate Change and Education Early Warning Handbooks to Zamfara. These handbooks will equip our children with essential environmental responsibility and preparedness knowledge, guiding them to adapt in a world impacted by climate change.
“Each of these interventions, the materials procured by the State, the contributions of UBEC, and the support of UNICEF, has its own significance. But together, they tell one powerful story the Zamfara has chosen the path of knowledge as the foundation for rebuilding.”
Governor Lawal further commended Zamfara teachers for their sacrifices to the educational sector.
“I must take a moment to commend our teachers. No investment in materials can substitute for the dedication of a teacher who inspires students daily. These resources we are distributing will have meaning only if they are effectively used by passionate educators.
“To parents and guardians, please recognize your vital role in your child’s education. A book alone is insufficient without encouragement at home. Education starts at home, where discipline and guidance lay the groundwork for success. I urge you to promote school attendance, monitor academic performance, and remind your children that their future relies on their commitment to learning.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 12, 2025
GOV. LAWAL SUPPORTS LOCAL BUSINESSES WITH OVER N1 BILLION, SAYS ZAMFARA ON A NEW TRAJECTORY
Governor Dauda Lawal has assured local entrepreneurs that Zamfara State is on a new path and is making significant strides, transforming from a state once dominated by challenges.
The governor inaugurated the distribution of grants under the SABER (SERBS) programme on Thursday at the JB Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Program represents a landmark in the state’s economic renewal.
The statement added that SABER is a five-year, performance-based, multi-sectoral initiative supported by the World Bank, carefully designed to dismantle barriers, stimulate private enterprise, and generate sustainable jobs for the people of Zamfara.
N150,000 will be distributed to 2,000 beneficiaries across the state to support nano and micro businesses. Additionally, 1,000 individuals in small and medium-sized businesses will receive N500,000 each. Furthermore, 60 people from medium—and large-scale businesses will benefit from a grant of N5 million each.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal noted that SABER is no ordinary intervention, affirming that the total amount allocated for the disbursement component of the program is approximately N1.1 billion, with funding support ranging from $20 million USD to $52 million USD between 2022 and 2026.
“We are gathered today to launch the program with the commencement of the disbursement of money to support various categories of businessmen and women throughout the state.
“There are three main categories of disbursements to be made. We have carefully reviewed relevant government institutions and the private sector, represented by the Chamber of Commerce leadership, to select beneficiaries in each support category.
Governor Lawal further stressed that the SABER program, coordinated by the Ministry of Budget and Planning, is implemented by various MDAs, including the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, ZAGIS, and others like Finance, Agriculture, and Justice. It also involves the Internal Revenue Service, Housing Corporation, and ZITDA, working in conjunction with the Ease of Doing Business Committee.
Earlier, the CEO/Director General of Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his numerous efforts to support local businesses in Zamfara State.
“I am glad that His Excellency the governor is not paying lip service to developing small businesses in Nigeria. I was sitting there, hearing that 2,000 businesses will get N150,000. I think it is important that if a small business owner gets N150,000, he will employ one person.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 12, 2025
IATF 2025: ZAMFARA IS OPEN FOR INVESTMENT, GOV. LAWAL TELLS GLOBAL INVESTORS
Governor Dauda Lawal has assured global investors that Zamfara State is open for investments.
The governor and other panelists participated in the fifth African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) conference held last Saturday in Algiers, Algeria.
A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that the panel includes the governors of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, and Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, of Bungoma County, Kenya, among others.
The high-level panel discussed investment opportunities in Nigeria’s Ogun and Zamfara states and Kenya’s Bungoma County.
In his address to global investors, Governor Lawal emphasized that his administration is committed to transforming Zamfara’s narrative from one of challenges to one of significant opportunities and resilience.
“My administration is dedicated to creating a secure, profitable, and sustainable environment for investment. I am here today as a partner, ready to collaborate with you to unlock our shared prosperity.
“To address the concerns raised, we seek partnerships in key areas to effectively implement our investment initiatives.
“We need financiers, such as Afreximbank, to provide and facilitate tools like credit guarantees, political risk insurance, and currency swap facilities. These instruments are essential for mitigating perceived risks while attracting capital for large-scale infrastructure and mining projects.
“We welcome institutional support for capacity building within our state agencies, particularly in modernizing our land registry, training our investment promotion team on global best practices, preparing projects, and implementing digital systems for transparent and efficient permit processing.”
Governor Lawal further said that beyond Zamfara’s gold deposits, the state is rich in vast, untapped resources, including copper, lithium, tantalite, and granite.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 09, 2025
MAULUD: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL FELICITATES MUSLIMS, CALLS FOR PRAYERS FOR PEACE
Governor Dauda Lawal has urged increased prayers for the restoration of peace in Zamfara State and across Nigeria.
This appeal was made on Friday in celebration of the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
In a statement issued in Gusau, the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that Muslims commemorate Maulud Nabi every year on the 12th of Rabiul Awal, the third month of the Hijri calendar.
“Governor Dauda Lawal, on behalf of the people of Zamfara State, wishes to congratulate the Muslim ummah on the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
“Every 12th of Rabi’ul Auwal serves as a day to celebrate the birth of our blessed Prophet (PBUH).
“This is a good time for all Muslims to learn from and emulate the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
“Islam is more than a religion, it is a way of life. The life of the Prophet (PBUH) guides us toward good values, character, and actions.
“We should use such significant religious occasions to remain steadfast in our prayers for peace in Zamfara State, the Northwest, and the entire country.
“May the Almighty Allah (T) bring an end to banditry and all forms of criminality in our beloved nation.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 05, 2025
