News – Zamfara State Government

Sep 3 2026

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES OUTSTANDING GOVERNOR AWARD AT DAILY TIMES CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES OUTSTANDING GOVERNOR AWARD AT DAILY TIMES CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, received the Outstanding Governor Award from the Daily Times in the North–West region during its centenary anniversary in Abuja.

The governor accepted the award today at the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards, organised by Nigeria’s oldest newspaper to commemorate its 100th anniversary.

Governor Lawal was recognised for his leadership, public service, and contribution to national development.

The award was part of activities celebrating the centenary of the newspaper, which was first published in 1926 and has chronicled Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural progress over the past century.

Chairman of the DTN@100 Heroes Awards Council, Bolaji Okusaga, stated that Governor Lawal was chosen because he received the highest nominations in the North-West.

“Following an extensive nomination and public voting process, you received the highest number of votes in this award category.

“The Times Heroes Award Council and other key stakeholders subsequently confirmed your selection in recognition of your leadership, public service, and contribution to national development,” Mr. Okusaga said.

Governor Lawal expressed his gratitude to the Board, Management, and Organising Committee of the Daily Times Nigeria @100 Celebration, the Times Heroes Award Council, and all Nigerians who supported his nomination.

He stated that the honour reflects his commitment to promoting good governance and effective public service in Zamfara State.

Other notable Nigerians honoured include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; and former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina.

The newspaper announced that recipients of the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards will be featured among the most outstanding individuals and institutions in the 700-page Nigerian Grand Book.

“This publication will serve as a national commemorative volume and a lasting record of the people, institutions, and achievements shaping Nigeria’s development.”

The foreword of the Nigerian Grand Book has been written by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 03, 2026

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Sep 1 2026

GOVERNOR LAWAL SPEAKS AT 2026 CEO FORUM ON UNLOCKING INVESTMENTS IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal participated in the 2026 CEO Forum, focusing on linking capital to opportunities and aligning business strategies to promote investment and inclusive economic development in Zamfara State.

The governor delivered the Special Policy Address on Tuesday at the event organized by the Global Compact Network Nigeria.

This year’s event, held in Lagos, focused on the theme “Financing a Dignified Future: Aligning Business Action, Policy and Capital.”

The forum is an exclusive CEO Roundtable and Leadership Dialogue that brings together chief executives, senior government officials, industry leaders from sectors such as oil and gas, energy, manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure, as well as trade commissioners, diplomats, and international development partners.

Governor Lawal spoke on how states compete for increasingly selective private capital and what distinguishes an economic opportunity from an investable proposition.

He provided insight into how Zamfara State, under his leadership, is working to bridge that gap in ways that support both investor confidence and meaningful economic outcomes for its people.

The forum aims to provide a platform where business leaders, government officials, and investors can work together to better align their decisions and unlock productive investment and inclusive economic growth.

This year’s event focused on connecting capital to opportunities by identifying where promising businesses, sectors, and projects struggle to access funding and what can help attract investment.

Defining the Dignity Dividend, on the other hand, explores how investment and growth can translate into better jobs, stronger businesses, increased productivity, local value creation and wider economic participation.

Securing Actionable Commitments identifies specific actions and partnerships that institutions represented in the room can advance over the following 6–12 months.

Other notable speakers included the CEOs of First Bank Group, Access Bank, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Nigerian Exchange Group, Chellarams Plc, SecureID Group, Greenwich Merchant Bank Plc, and others.

The organizers said the session will culminate in a live showcase of the Business Value and Sustainability Platform (BVSP) — a light-touch, standing coalition of business, capital, and policy actors designed to carry the conversation forward, including by shaping Nigeria’s private-sector contribution to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 01, 2026

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Sep 1 2026

GOVERNOR LAWAL MOURNS SARKIN ZAMFARAN ZURMI, ALHAJI BELLO SULAIMAN

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR LAWAL MOURNS SARKIN ZAMFARAN ZURMI, ALHAJI BELLO SULAIMAN

Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Bello Sulaiman.

The revered traditional ruler passed away on Monday at the Federal Medical Centre, Gusau.

Governor Lawal described the Emir’s passing as a profound loss to his family, the Zurmi Emirate, the traditional institution, and the entire people of Zamfara State.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Bello Sulaiman, Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi.

“His death is a great loss to Zamfara State. He will be remembered for his service to his people, his contributions to the traditional institution, and his commitment to the peace and progress of our state.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Zamfara State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Zurmi Emirate Council, and the entire people of Zurmi Emirate.

“I pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, rewards his good deeds, grants him Aljannah Firdaus, and gives his family and the people of Zurmi the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Governor of Zamfara State
September 1, 2026

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Aug 22 2026

2027: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMENDS SEN. YARI’S APPOINTMENT AS PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CAMPAIGN DG

PRESS STATEMENT

2027: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL COMMENDS SEN. YARI’S APPOINTMENT AS PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CAMPAIGN DG

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal commended the appointment of Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar as the Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima 2027 Campaign Council.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Saturday announced its Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election, naming former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Yari, as Director-General.

Governor Lawal described Senator Yari’s appointment as Director-General of the APC presidential campaign as evidence of his exceptional leadership in organisational management.

The governor said Yari’s appointment is not only a good omen but also the right decision that will lead to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

He said, “On behalf of the people of Zamfara State, we extend sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing one of our own, former Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, as Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima 2027 Campaign Council. This appointment is a moment of pride for all of us.

“This decision will undoubtedly uplift the spirits and morale of all members of the APC, reinforcing their commitment to the party’s vision and objectives.”

The governor noted that, with Senator Yari leading the Presidential campaign, the party is well positioned to convince voters and advance President Tinubu’s agenda.

Governor Lawal also congratulated former Zamfara Governors Ahmed Sani Yarima, Mahmuda Aliyu Shinkafi, and Bello Matawalle for their appointments to vital roles in the Presidential campaign council.

“Their experiences and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the presidential campaign, further strengthening the party’s efforts as we all work towards ensuring President Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 22, 2026

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Aug 19 2026

ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

Governor Dauda Lawal has emphasised that bandits who refuse peace and threaten innocent people must face the full consequences of the law.

The Zamfara State Government hosted a three-day Northwest Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Police on Wednesday at the Government House, Gusau.

The Security Summit, themed ‘Appraising the Security Challenges in the Northwest Region’, was honoured by the presence of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

The summit brought together the leadership of the Nigeria Police, representatives of the Northwest States, heads of security and intelligence agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organisations.

While declaring the summit open, Governor Lawal commended the Inspector-General of Police and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for convening the summit and for choosing Zamfara State as the host.

He said, “This is significant because Zamfara remains at the frontline of the security challenges confronting the Northwest. It provides an appropriate setting for an honest assessment of our challenges and, more importantly, the development of practical solutions.

“The Northwest’s security crisis exceeds isolated crimes. Organised networks conduct banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling across borders, threatening livelihoods, food security, education, investment, and the social fabric. The summit also highlights urban threats such as thuggery, substance abuse, and radical infiltration.

“This reality demands moving beyond fragmented responses because criminal networks ignore state boundaries. Our security must operate cohesively. Intelligence in Zamfara can prevent attacks elsewhere, and operations nearby can disrupt threats in Zamfara.

“Accordingly, the Northwest needs stronger mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, inter-state surveillance, community policing, and sustained disruption of the financial, logistical and supply networks that sustain organised crime.”

The governor added that the summit represents some of the finest operational, intelligence and strategic experience within the Nigeria Police Force and the security ecosystem.

“We must, therefore, challenge ourselves to leave Gusau not merely with another diagnosis of insecurity, but with actionable options.

“I urge this summit to consider practical measures to cut off criminal networks’ supply chains and limit their movement. Criminal enterprises rely on logistics including routes, markets, intermediaries, financiers, and networks.

“We must confront operational questions: How do we disrupt supply chains? How do we limit criminals’ mobility across forests, communities, and borders? How do we strengthen control over vulnerable corridors without harming legitimate commerce? And how do we identify and dismantle networks of informants and facilitators enabling crime?”

Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said that the security of the Northwest is a collective responsibility because the region is of enormous importance to Nigeria.

“We are combining states to tackle the issue of insecurity. We have come together, we police together, we share intelligence together. We have made up our minds to take the fight to these criminals. We have made up our minds to do this; that is why we summoned this summit.”

“As Inspector-General of Police, I assure you that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to deploy its capabilities, personnel and partnerships towards securing the region and supporting the efforts of State Governments and other security agencies. But we also recognise that policing is most effective when it is supported by the people.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 19, 2026

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Aug 18 2026

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL WINS BLUEPRINT’S 2026 AWARD FOR EFFICIENT PUBLIC RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has been honoured with the Blueprint Newspapers’ 2026 Efficient Public Resource Management and Transparency Award.

The governor on Tuesday received the award at the 8th edition of Blueprint Newspapers’ Annual Public Lecture, Impact Series and Awards, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

This year’s theme of the event was “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections.”

Delivering remarks at the event, Governor Lawal expressed his appreciation to the management of Blueprint Newspaper and vowed to do more in his administration’s efforts to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

He said, “This award is a testament that the media and Nigerians outside Zamfara are witnessing the efforts my government is putting in our quest to make Zamfara great.

“In the three years of my government, we have recorded so many successes in the areas of security, education, health, economy, human capital, infrastructure, among others. And all these were achieved because we run a transparent government.”

The newspaper, among the reasons for the award, said Governor Lawal was recognised for his prudent management of public resources, fiscal accountability and efforts to promote transparent governance in Zamfara State.

The award, it said, emphasises responsible stewardship of public resources and the connection between fiscal discipline and inclusive development.

The Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar, said Governor Lawal “represents a blend of professional accomplishment and public service.”

He said the governor’s experience in diplomacy, banking and politics has equipped him with a broad understanding of governance, financial management and institutional leadership.

“As Governor of Zamfara State, he continues to pursue policies aimed at restoring stability, improving infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said.

He added that “his government has focused on improving financial discipline, strengthening public sector accountability and ensuring that public resources are directed toward projects capable of producing measurable benefits for the people of Zamfara State.”

“He has consistently emphasised responsible budgeting, efficient service delivery and prudent management of state finances as essential foundations for long-term development,” the newspaper said in the governor’s citation.

His administration, it said, has supported initiatives aimed at improving security operations, protecting rural communities and creating conditions that encourage displaced residents to return to their homes and resume productive activities.

Governor Lawal has placed considerable emphasis on rebuilding public infrastructure across Zamfara State, the newspaper said.

His government, it said, has undertaken road rehabilitation and construction projects, improved public buildings and invested in infrastructure designed to stimulate commerce, improve transportation and enhance access to essential public services.

These projects are intended to reconnect communities, facilitate economic activities and support balanced development across urban and rural areas, the citation stated.

It added that Governor Lawal’s administration also recognises education as a critical tool for reducing poverty and creating opportunities for future generations. He also pursued reforms to strengthen healthcare delivery throughout the state.

The event brought together policymakers, security chiefs, political leaders, diplomats, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical measures to ensure peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 18, 2026

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Aug 9 2026

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

PRESS STATEMENT

CANADA-AFRICA SUMMIT: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL, OTHERS REPRESENT NIGERIA IN TORONTO

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, other state governors, and the President’s Chief of Staff will represent Nigeria at the Canada–Africa Summit on digital rails and inclusive growth.

The Maiden Investment Summit is set to take place in Toronto from August 10 to 15, 2026.

The Presidency’s invitation to Governor Lawal highlighted that his role as a key participant would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic standing at the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Economic Conference (NDIEC).

The Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) is a leading global platform where governments, investors, multinational companies, development finance institutions, foundations, and partners form strategic partnerships and explore investment opportunities.

The summit will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goals through the National Energy Transition Plan to make Nigeria a key partner in Africa–Canada economic cooperation.

The Zamfara State Government sees NIDEC as more than just a diplomatic event; it is a strategic economic mission to attract investment, technology transfer, development funding, and technical partnerships to drive the State’s economic transformation.

Governor Lawal’s involvement in the Canada-Africa Investment Summit will help position Zamfara State as Nigeria’s emerging hub for agribusiness, strategic minerals development, human capital growth, and digital innovation.

Nigeria’s delegation also includes the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the governors Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Sen. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, among others.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 09, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

PRESS STATEMENT

Gov. Dauda Lawal Receives ZIK Pan-African Leadership Award In Ghana

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has been honoured with the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award in Ghana, recognising his administration’s notable achievements over the past three years.

The 7th ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award ceremony was held on Friday at the British Council in Accra, Ghana.

This year’s theme for the lecture was “Leadership, Peace, and Regional Integration: Advancing Africa’s Development in a Changing Global Order.”

The award’s board and governing council emphasised, among other reasons for the honour, Governor Dauda Lawal’s significant progress in public sector leadership and economic reforms in Zamfara State.

The BOT chairman of the ZIK Pan-African Award, His Royal Highness Professor Echefuna R.G Onyeabadi, stated that the award aims to recognise individuals making meaningful contributions in service to the people.

In his remarks after receiving the award, Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his gratitude and committed to doing more to help rescue and rebuild Zamfara State.

He said: “This award is dedicated to all the people of Zamfara State. My administration has been working tirelessly to ensure the state can compete with any other in Nigeria. That was our promise, and we have surpassed expectations in just three years.

“My administration has transformed Zamfara through urban renewal initiatives; we constructed a modern, state-of-the-art airport, something that had not existed for over 30 years since the state’s founding.

“We have made great strides in security, civil service reform, education, health, and other sectors.

“I appreciate the organisers of this annual lecture and award. It means a lot to me and will motivate me to do even more for my people. Zamfara is on the rise.”

Among other dignitaries awarded at the event is the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, for his contributions to public service and sustainable development.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Aug 8 2026

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL CELEBRATES APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA AT 58

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on his birthday.

The National Chairman and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction turned 58th on August 08, 2026.

The Zamfara Governor described the chairman as a valuable asset to the progressive family and Nigeria’s political development.

He said, “On his birthday, I felicitate with our Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, a refined academic and committed party leader who prioritises the development of the All Progressives Congress.

“The exemplary leadership and vision displayed by Professor Nentawe have played a vital role in promoting major initiatives and in encouraging cooperation among the members of our great party.

“As you turn 58 today, I wish you many more years of complete mental, physical, and social well-being so Nigeria continues to benefit from your vast knowledge and experience.”

Governor Lawal noted that Professor Nentawe’s handling of the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections shows his knowledge, discipline, sincerity, and commitment to doing what is right.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 08, 2026

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Aug 6 2026

Bandit Attack: Governor Lawal Visits Bungudu LGA, Reaffirms Commitment to Combating Crime

PRESS STATEMENT

Bandit Attack: Governor Lawal Visits Bungudu LGA, Reaffirms Commitment to Combating Crime

Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s policy of refusing to negotiate with or yield to criminals in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor visited Bungudu Local Government Area to offer condolences to affected families, the emirate, and the community following the recent bandit attack.

The visit began at the palace of the Emir of Bungudu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, where Governor Lawal outlined the state government’s ongoing efforts to maintain security and peace in Zamfara.

He said, “I am here to express my sympathy and offer condolences to the families, the Emir, and the people of Bungudu following last week’s bandit attacks.

“This is a test from Almighty Allah, and we will overcome it. The state government is dedicating resources and efforts to end the threat of banditry.

“I encourage everyone to remain patient, as this sensitive issue requires both perseverance and steadfast prayers.

“I pray that God grants the victims’ families the strength to endure this loss. May Allah forgive those who lost their lives.

“We will continue to provide all necessary assistance to those injured and will do everything possible to secure the safe return of all kidnapped victims.”

In response, the Emir of Bungudu thanked God for providing Zamfara State with a Governor who cares and is taking all possible measures to end insecurity.

“As a member of the state’s security council, I am aware of the governor’s efforts. I am confident that we will overcome the challenge of banditry.

“We appreciate your condolence visit. It means a lot to the people of Bungudu LGA.”

While in Bungudu LGA, Governor Lawal visited the families of the late Alhaji Bello Umar Bungudu and other victims’ families to offer his condolences.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 06, 2026

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