News – Zamfara State Government

Oct 31 2026

GOV. LAWAL PRESENTS STAFF OF OFFICE AND OFFICIAL VEHICLES TO 19 ZAMFARA EMIRS

Governor Dauda Lawal has presented staff of office and official vehicles to 19 emirs in Zamfara State.

The coronation and presentation ceremony took place at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, the state capital.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were His Eminence the Sultan of Sokoto, the Etsu Nupe and the Emir of Gwandu.

Following their oaths of office, Governor Lawal presented staff of office to 11 first class emirs and eight second class emirs.

Each newly coronated emir also received a GAC ULTRA SUV (2025/2026 model), a MIKANO ZNA HILUX vehicle and an EV ANTIQUE MODEL car (DDP). The vehicles are intended to support their travels and help them engage more closely with their communities.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the ceremony reflected his administration’s recognition of the traditional institution as an enduring part of society and an important partner in promoting peace, stability and development.

He noted that the ceremony also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to giving traditional rulers the recognition and institutional support they need to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

He said, “The staff of office being presented today signifies the authority entrusted to you by the State,” he said.

“It also represents a responsibility to govern your respective domains with fairness, wisdom, integrity, and compassion.

“I expect every emir to carry out their responsibilities without discrimination, uphold justice, and ensure that the traditional institution remains accessible to all members of the community.

“Our people must find guidance, fairness, and reassurance in their traditional rulers.

“Recognising the importance of royal palaces as centres of traditional authority and community engagement, I reaffirm our commitment to completing the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces.

“This is part of our broader effort to strengthen these institutions and improve the conditions in which traditional rulers carry out their responsibilities.

“We are also providing official vehicles to the 19 emirs. These include GAC ULTRA SUVs (2025/2026 models), MIKANO ZNA HILUX vehicles, and EV ANTIQUE MODEL cars (DDP).

“This provision is intended to facilitate travel across your respective emirates, encourage closer engagement with your communities, and improve coordination with government institutions.

“I expect these vehicles to be properly maintained and used responsibly in support of your official duties.”

The governor also urged the royal fathers to build a productive partnership between their emirates and the State Government.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, urged the newly coronated emirs to remain fully loyal to the authority. He also encouraged them to respect and uphold the dignity of the traditional institution as they discharge their duties.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
31 October 2026

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Oct 30 2026

ZAMFARA IS EVIDENCE OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP UNDER GOV. LAWAL, SAYS EFCC CHAIRMAN

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA IS EVIDENCE OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP UNDER GOV. LAWAL, SAYS EFCC CHAIRMAN

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede, affirmed the presence of transformational leadership in Zamfara State under Governor Dauda Lawal.

The EFCC Chairman delivered the keynote address at the 30th anniversary of Zamfara State, held at the Grand Chamber of the Government House in Gusau.

Other notable speakers at the anniversary lecture are Professor Tijjani Muhammad Bande, Professor Sulaiman Kura, Professor Murtala Rufai, Professor Taofik Aminu, among others.

Mr Olukoyede stated that he conducted due diligence on Zamfara State and its governor before accepting the invitation to serve as a keynote speaker.

He said, “By virtue of the ethical demands of my office, I don’t attend political events; I don’t go to the government house as a matter of principle. But when I received this invitation, something told me to accept and see what was going on there.

“I did a little due diligence on His Excellency and the state. I saw when the state was created and noticed the drastic change over the past 3 years. And I made up my mind. I went to meet my boss, Mr President, and he said, go. I told him what I have seen about Zamfara and the need to support the work His Excellency, Dauda Lawal, is doing in this state.

“I am deeply honoured to be with you this morning. My acceptance to be with you today stems from two distinct realities: first, my professional engagements rarely bring me to this vibrant part of the nation because my office is based in Abuja. This is my first time in Zamfara State.

“As I arrived in Gusau, the first thing I noticed was the new airport. It is noticeable even to first-time visitors. The capital city speaks of visible transformation, as we have seen. Newly paved roads align with street solar lights.

“Zamfara unfortunately ranked near the bottom, not for lack of natural allure, but because the perception of rigid social tendencies overshadowed its immense natural potential.

“Even after becoming a state capital in 1996, transformation was gradual. For years, despite the efforts of previous governors, Zamfara remained among the country’s less-developed states.

“However, today, the contemporary outlook is shifting; indeed, the physical evolution of Gusau serves as a powerful metaphor for the broader Zamfara State.

“I am incredibly encouraged to learn that Zamfara has steadily improved its performance in critical national examinations like NECO and WAEC. Public infrastructure is expanding, positively impacting people’s daily lives. These strides are rightfully attributed to the consolidation of the deliberate reform initiatives and align perfectly with the theme of today’s celebration titled ‘accountability and responsibility in transformational government’.

“Despite the ethical standards of the office I occupied, it will take a serious-minded, committed democrat, a transparent governor, to have the temerity and audacity to bring the Chairman of the EFCC to address the people of the state.”

In his remarks, Governor Lawal emphasised that the anniversary theme, “Reflections, Achievements, and the Future,” is meant to examine the challenges that have shaped the state’s experience and to consider what leaders must do to secure a better future.

He said, “I’m pleased this commemoration has fostered serious intellectual engagement beyond ceremony. Today’s papers address key government responsibilities: public accountability, community involvement in tackling insecurity, preserving our history and culture, and linking security with socio-economic development.

“These discussions guide this administration. Our Six-Point Rescue Agenda addresses the State’s challenges. At the same time, the Zamfara State Development Plan 2025–2034 provides a long-term roadmap for the economy, infrastructure, social welfare, human capital, governance and environmental sustainability. We must turn these commitments into measurable improvements in people’s lives.

“I sincerely appreciate all the presenters for the knowledge and experience they have brought to this occasion. I also thank the Chairman of the Occasion, the discussants, the organising committee and the Sub-Committee on Lecture and Publications for their contributions to this event. To all our guests and participants, I am grateful for your presence and participation.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 30, 2026

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Oct 29 2026

HORIZON ZAMFARA 2026: A Land of Greater Possibilities — Our History, Our Heritage, Our Future

HORIZON_ZAMFARA_2026_Historical_Narrative Download

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Oct 22 2026

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN FIVE NEW PERMANENT SECRETARIES, CALLS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC SERVICE RULES

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL SWEARS IN FIVE NEW PERMANENT SECRETARIES, CALLS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC SERVICE RULES

Governor Dauda Lawal has called on the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries to be guided by the Public Service Rules, the financial regulations and all other relevant laws.

On Thursday, the Governor swore in five new permanent secretaries to the Zamfara Civil Service at the Grand Chamber of the Government House in Gusau.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries are Ahmad S. Zamfara, Nasiru Halilu Anka, Mu’azu Jibril Guraguri, Adamu Abdullahi Kanoma, and Sani Muhammad Shinkafi.

The Chief Judge of Zamfara State, Justice Kulu Aliyu, administered the oath of office to the new Permanent Secretaries, who swore to be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as enshrined in the Constitution and the law.

Speaking at the swearing-in, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s continuing commitment to strengthening the institutions of Government and ensuring that the public service has the leadership, competence and discipline required to support our development aspirations.

He said, “I extend my sincere congratulations to the five officers taking this oath today. Your appointments mark a career milestone and reflect confidence in your experience, abilities, and readiness for greater responsibility.

“Becoming Permanent Secretaries is more than personal advancement: as senior administrative leaders, your decisions and conduct directly affect government performance and the welfare of the people we serve.

“The Permanent Secretary is central to Government, providing administrative leadership, institutional continuity, and policy advice while implementing approved programs. You also maintain discipline, coordinate your establishment, and ensure public resources serve their intended purposes.

“Our administration came in with the determination to improve governance, to strengthen institutions and to advance a development agenda that would meet the needs and aspirations of the people of Zamfara.

“We continue with our reforms to improve public administration and the delivery of essential services, with the civil service as the vehicle through which government decisions are translated into results.”

The Governor further charged the new appointees to approach their assignments with a clear understanding of his administration’s priorities.

“Proper planning, realistic implementation strategies, effective supervision and continuous assessment of results must support policies and programs.

“Maintain constructive, professional relationships with your commissioners and other political officeholders. Political leaders set policy; career civil servants provide the institutional knowledge, technical advice, and administrative capacity to implement it.

“These roles complement each other, and the effectiveness of the Government depends on mutual respect.”

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

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Oct 14 2026

DIGITAL GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR

The Executive Secretary was honoured to receive the Digital Governor of the Year Award on behalf of His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal, at the recently concluded Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards, organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms.

The prestigious award reflects the remarkable progress and meaningful strides recorded by the administration of His Excellency in advancing digital transformation across Zamfara State.

Through strategic investments in digital infrastructure and connectivity, e-government platforms, and digital skills development, the administration is steadily building a more efficient, technology-enabled, accessible, and inclusive public service.

A major milestone in this digital transformation journey is the establishment of the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology (ZIIT), a landmark initiative designed to empower citizens, particularly young people, with the digital skills and technological competencies needed to compete and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Beyond recognising the progress achieved, this award serves as a renewed commitment to deepening innovation, promoting digital inclusion, and leveraging technology to strengthen good governance, improve public service delivery, and drive sustainable development in Zamfara State.

#WeMeanBusiness

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Oct 6 2026

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL JOINS FG’S DELEGATION FOR NIGERIA-ETHIOPIA LEADERSHIP EXCHANGE IN ADDIS ABABA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL JOINS FG’S DELEGATION FOR NIGERIA-ETHIOPIA LEADERSHIP EXCHANGE IN ADDIS ABABA

President Bola Tinubu has approved a high-level Nigerian delegation to Addis Ababa for a leadership exchange and learning visit.

The federal government’s delegation will be led by Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, and will include Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.

The delegation will depart on Tuesday ahead of the Nigeria-Ethiopia leadership exchange, scheduled from 7th to 9th October 2026.

Other state governors on the delegation include AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Alex Otti of Abia State, Sen. Bassey Otu of Cross River State, Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, and Umar Namadi of Jigawa State.

The leadership exchange visit builds on commitments made by the Federal Government during the launch of the Nutrition 774 Initiative (N774) at the 148th National Economic Council meeting to accelerate sub-national action on nutrition.

Ethiopia’s Seqota Declaration has been recognised as a valuable comparative model, given its success in translating national political commitment into coordinated, financed, and accountable nutrition delivery at decentralised levels.

In 2015, the Government of Ethiopia committed to ending stunting in children under 2 years by 2030.

The commitment, known as the Seqota Declaration (SD), is implemented through a multisectoral programme involving nine government ministries, including the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Education, Water, Irrigation and Energy, Women, Children and Youth, Transport, Finance, MOLSA, Culture and Tourism.

The Seqota Declaration has a 15-year roadmap divided into three phases: Innovation, Expansion, and Scale-Up.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 6, 2026

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Oct 4 2026

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF 95KM ROAD CONSTRUCTION IN TSAFE LGA, SAYS PROJECT WILL IMPROVE SECURITY OPERATIONS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF 95KM ROAD CONSTRUCTION IN TSAFE LGA, SAYS PROJECT WILL IMPROVE SECURITY OPERATIONS

Governor Dauda Lawal emphasised that the new 95km road in Tsafe will improve the transportation of goods and services and strengthen security in the local government area.

On Sunday, Governor Lawal officially flagged off the construction of the ‘Yandoton Daji, Cediya, Doka, ‘Yan Waren Daji, Hayin Alhaji Bedi, Unguwar Joji, and ‘Yankuzo to Tsafe roads, along with five bridges in Tsafe Local Government Area.

The project is divided into two phases, the first phase, covering 47 kilometres, has been awarded to SKY Construction Company, while the second phase, covering 48 kilometres, has been awarded to Setraco Construction Company Limited.

In his remarks at the commissioning, Governor Lawal said the project spans communities that are predominantly agricultural and play a crucial role in Zamfara State’s economy.

He said, “As a responsible government, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our people. That is why we have prioritised this road project as a key intervention to restore peace and stability in Zamfara State.

“Reconstructing this road will enhance the movement of goods and the mobility of security agencies, thereby improving operational capacity and response to threats or attacks.

“This road is part of a broader infrastructure renewal program across Zamfara State. From the Gusau–Magami–Dansadau Road to the Zurmi–Rukudawa Road, and the Mallamawa–Bukkuyum Road with a spur to Masamar Mudi, our administration is steadily reconnecting communities and addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits.

“We recognise the importance of well-built roads for safe travel, efficient goods movement, and economic growth. This project aims to go beyond transportation; it seeks to stimulate economic activity, enhance security, and improve community life. We understand the urgency due to the challenging circumstances in these communities, and we are committed to strict adherence to timelines for timely completion.”

Governor Lawal also tasked the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to ensure rigorous supervision, quality assurance, and strict compliance with approved engineering standards throughout the project.

“Contractors handling government projects must understand that Zamfara State expects value for money, quality craft, and infrastructure capable of withstanding the test of time.

“I hope this road will enhance transportation and security, serve as a unifying force that brings communities together, and symbolise our commitment to infrastructure development for the prosperity and growth of Zamfara.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 4, 2026

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Oct 2 2026

ZAMFARA @ 30: GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS, DECLARES HIS RESCUE MISSION A SUCCESS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA @ 30: GOV. LAWAL COMMISSIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS, DECLARES HIS RESCUE MISSION A SUCCESS

Governor Dauda Lawal declared that his administration’s rescue mission is transforming Zamfara State across critical sectors.

On Thursday, the governor began a series of events and project commissioning to mark Zamfara State’s 30th Anniversary.

The 30th Anniversary and commissioning were attended by the Pioneer Military Administrator of Zamfara State, Col. Jibril Bala Yakubu (Rtd.), former governors Ahmed Sani Yarima and Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi, and other dignitaries.

During his speech at the National Independence Day parade and Zamfara’s 30th Anniversary at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, Governor Lawal said Zamfara has moved from despair to an era of clear execution, transparency, and sustainable development.

He said, “Today, we join Nigerians in celebrating Independence Day and mark three decades since Zamfara State was created on October 1, 1996. Alhamdulillah for Allah’s grace, mercy, and protection that have guided us through trials and triumphs, uniting us in a shared destiny.

“As we watched our gallant security forces, paramilitary agencies, vibrant students and youth march in unity on this parade ground, we were reminded of the resilience that defines the Nigerian spirit and, most specifically, the strength of character of our people.

“We must reflect intentionally on the profound sacrifices of our founding fathers, who fought tirelessly to break the chains of colonial rule and give birth to a free, sovereign nation. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude for protecting this country’s unity, peace, and territorial integrity.

“As we look forward to the next decade, we must understand that true independence demands collective responsibility. Government alone can’t do this. I call on traditional rulers, religious scholars, civil servants, traders, and our resilient youth to unite. We must set aside divisions—ethnic, political, sectarian—and protect the peace we fought for.”

On Friday, Governor Lawal commissioned phase III of the renovated and modernised J.B. Yakubu Secretariat in Gusau as part of his effort to rebuild government institutions and create a modern, efficient, technology-enabled, results-oriented Public Service for Zamfara State.

The J.B. Yakubu Secretariat houses critical Ministries, Departments, and Agencies whose responsibilities span virtually every aspect of governance and service delivery.

Governor Lawal said modernising the Secretariat will deepen coordination among MDAs, strengthen communication, promote institutional synergy, and support faster, more effective implementation of government decisions.

“Today’s occasion is significant as we welcome His Excellency, Col. Jibril Bala Yakubu (Rtd.), Zamfara’s pioneer Military Administrator, after whom this Secretariat is named. As Zamfara marks thirty years since its creation, it’s fitting that a leader from our foundation is here to witness this milestone.”

Earlier, the pioneer Military Administrator of Zamfara State, Col. Jibril Bala Yakubu (Rtd.), lauded Governor Lawal’s giant strides, particularly in infrastructure, education, and health.

On the same Friday, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, mni, commissioned the reconstructed and remodelled Jumu’at Mosque (Yardole) and its attached shopping complex.

The mosque, named after Malam Sambo Dan Ashafa, a renowned Islamic scholar and companion of the great (MUJADDADI) and leader of the 1st Sokoto Jihad, Sheikh Uthman Ibn Fodiyo, will also serve as an Islamic and research learning centre.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 02, 20

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Sep 16 2026

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL TO ATTEND UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN NEW YORK

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR DAUDA LAWAL TO ATTEND UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN NEW YORK

Governor Dauda Lawal will attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York to engage with global leaders, partners, and international organisations to attract investment for Zamfara State.

The 81st session of the General Assembly is themed “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

Key meetings of the UNGA will focus on the SDGs, climate action, pandemic response, racial justice, and nuclear disarmament.

The governor’s participation will showcase Zamfara State’s development priorities, build partnerships, and find ways to collaborate on security, economic growth, education, healthcare, and sustainable development.

Governor Lawal’s activities begin on September 18 with a High-Level Executive Global Roundtable Side Event and the SDG Moment.

On September 21, Governor Lawal will speak at a high-level side event during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the theme “From Fragility to Opportunity: Locally Led Pathways to Peace, Resilience and Investment in Fragile Contexts.”

This event will launch the Northwest Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026-2030) and help build strategic partnerships and investments to support its implementation.

Other important events include the SDG Roundtable Discussion 2026, the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting, the African-Caribbean High-Level Interactive Dialogue: Redefining Influence, Accelerating Action, and the Nigeria Investment Forum.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 16, 2026

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Sep 11 2026

GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OFFICIAL VEHICLES TO ZAMFARA HIGHER INSTITUTIONS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL DISTRIBUTES OFFICIAL VEHICLES TO ZAMFARA HIGHER INSTITUTIONS

Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed official vehicles to higher institutions to strengthen the capacity, efficiency, and effectiveness of Zamfara State’s education system.

The distribution of the official vehicles was held on Friday at the Government House in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the vehicles are institutional assets and operational tools to support administration, supervision, accreditation, official engagements, and other legitimate responsibilities of the benefiting institutions.

The statement noted that institutions and offices allocated brand-new vehicles are Federal University Gusau, Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara, and Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara.

Other beneficiaries are the College of Nursing & Midwifery, Gusau; the Teachers Service Board; the Senior Secondary School Board; Quality Assurance; ZACAS; and other State Government Public Institutions.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated that the initiative will increase the productivity of Zamfara State public office holders by providing reliable transportation, enabling them to deliver services more effectively and quickly.

He said, “It is important to emphasise that these vehicles are not personal entitlements for any office holder. They remain the property of the Zamfara State Government and must be used responsibly and strictly for official purposes.

“I expect institutions to be responsible for custody, deployment, maintenance, and documentation. Heads will be accountable for misuse, unauthorised use, or unnecessary deterioration of assets.

“As the government invests in education, we must foster a culture of maintenance and accountability. Public assets should provide value throughout their life. We must commit to higher standards of service, emphasising transparency and accountability.

“Our administration will continue to provide the infrastructure, equipment, and institutional support needed to improve higher education in Zamfara State. In return, we expect responsible leadership, prudent management, and measurable improvements in academic and administrative performance.”

Governor Lawal further congratulated the benefiting institutions and urged them to ensure that the vehicles serve the institutions, students, and the people of Zamfara State rather than individual interests.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
September 11, 2026

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