News – Zamfara State Government

Jun 21 2024

URBAN RENEWAL: FORMER BAUCHI GOVERNOR, ADAMU COMMISSIONS ZAMFARA TOWNSHIP ROADS, COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

URBAN RENEWAL: FORMER BAUCHI GOVERNOR, ADAMU COMMISSIONS ZAMFARA TOWNSHIP ROADS, COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL

Former Bauchi State Governor Ahmed Adamu Mu’azu commended Governor Dauda Lawal for initiating various road projects in Zamfara state.

On Friday, the former governor and former chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) commissioned two major Township Roads in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement from the spokesperson for the Governor of Zamfara, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the commissioned township roads include Freedom Square to Nasiha Chemist Junction, from Freedom Square to the government house, and from the government house to Lalan to Gada Biyu.

The statement added that the township roads from Freedom Square to Nasiha Chemist Junction and Freedom Square to Government House were all contracted to Ronches Nigeria Limited, while Triacta Nigeria Limited carried out the road from Government House to Lalan to Gada-Biyu.

Delivering his speech at the commissioning, Governor Dauda Lawal said that for the first time in 28 years since Zamfara State was created, Gusau has now begun to look like a proper state capital

“I wish to start by welcoming our august visitor and special guest of honour to this occasion. This is no other person than His Excellency Ahmad Adamu Mu’azu, CON, the former Governor of Bauchi State and the former National Chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). Your records as a trailblazer as Bauchi State Governor and (PDP) Chairman are still unbeaten and have remained a source of inspiration for upcoming leaders.

“Indeed, we cannot thank almighty Allah enough for the gift of life and for the opportunity to continue to unveil project after project, not only as a developmental pedestal of our State but as a mark of fulfillment of our promise to the people of Zamfara State during electioneering campaigns. I want to reiterate my commitment to the service of my dear State at all times.

“To the glory of almighty Allah, therefore, we shall be commissioning the road from Freedom Square to Nasiha Chemist Junction, Freedom Square to Government House, all contracted to Ronches Nigeria Limited, and Government House to Lalan Gada-Biyu carried out by Triacta Nigeria Limited. These are some of the township roads constructed by my administration from when we took office.

“What we are about to commission today is the second in a series of many. By the time we finish our plans for the urban renewal program, all of us will be proud to call Gusau our state capital. Similarly, we will improve all infrastructure across the 14 local government areas of the state.

“With these few remarks, it is my honor and privilege to invite His Excellency, the former Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Ahmad Adamu Mu’azu, CON, to come forward and commission the Freedom Square to government house junction and Freedom Square to Nasiha junction road all constructed by this administration within one year of leadership of the State as part of our urban renewal program.”

Earlier, the guest of honour and former Bauchi State Governor Ahmad Adamu Mua’azu, CON, expressed delight at the projects initiated by Governor Lawal, stating that he is a prudent and result-oriented leader.

“Today, I stand with a lot of pride and gratitude to Allah for the commendable projects that Governor Dauda Lawal has undertaken.

“The remarkable aspect of these roads is that they are of the highest quality by global standards. I can assure you that these are very durable roads because Triacta does not compromise on standards.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 21, 2024

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Jun 21 2024

HEALTH: GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF REMODELLING, UPGRADING, AND EQUIPPING OF ZAMFARA SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

PRESS STATEMENT

HEALTH: GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF REMODELLING, UPGRADING, AND EQUIPPING OF ZAMFARA SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Governor Dauda Lawal has commissioned the remodelling, upgrading, and equipping the only state-owned tertiary healthcare facility, Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital, Gusau.

The flag-off ceremony was held on Thursday at the Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Governor of Zamfara, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that upgrading the hospital will transform Yariman Bakura into the teaching hospital of Zamfara State University.

During his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal reassured that the reconstruction would improve the referral system for specialized care, increase the healthcare workforce, and enhance service quality, resulting in better health outcomes.

“We are here today to flag off the remodelling, upgrading, and equipping of Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital, Gusau. The work will also consist of acquiring medical equipment for the hospital. This project is a follow-up to our declaration of a state of emergency on the State’s health sector after that of education.

“This was necessitated by the enormous challenges we inherited in the sector when we took over the governance of the state. The hospital is in a dire state despite its vital role in providing quality healthcare services to residents and visitors alike. Many of its structures are in disrepair, indicating an urgent need for attention. Additionally, the hospital lacks adequate laboratory facilities, hindering the staff’s ability to carry out essential diagnostic procedures effectively.

“Our aim is not only to safeguard the health and well-being of residents of the state and healthcare services providers but also to proactively address, manage, and ultimately control the incidences of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

“We intend to have a comprehensive healthcare approach that will encompass a spectrum of essential services, including the provision of essential medicines, preventive measures, repositioning of health policies, implementation of protocols on water sanitation and hygiene standards, treatment of health conditions, immunization programs, comprehensive antenatal services, related nutrition intervention as well as strengthening of healthcare financing contributory model.

“As Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital is the only State-owned tertiary healthcare facility meant to offer specialized medical care involving complex procedures and treatments, alongside providing specialized residency training for healthcare professionals conducting research in various medical fields, it is imperative that we ensure the remodeling and upgrading of the Hospital to enhance the referral system for specialist care, increase human resource for health and boost service quality utilization, leading to improved health outcomes. We intend to make Yariman Bakura the Zamfara State University teaching hospital as soon as the College of Medical Sciences commences.

“The components of the remodelling project will include new construction, expansion and upgrading of existing structures, renovation and facelift of existing structures, completion of Doctor’s Quarters, and the development of Laboratory Imaging. Facilities and a complete Hospital Information Management system.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 21, 2024

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Jun 20 2024

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO RESCUE ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF GUSAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO RESCUE ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his commitment to rebuilding a new Zamfara that will reclaim its historical role as a commercial hub in northern Nigeria.

On Thursday, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, officially launched the construction works for the Gusau International Airport.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the Gusau Airport project is intended to be a smart airport designed to accommodate domestic and international flights.

According to him, the airport project will include the construction of a 3.4-kilometer primary runway suitable for large commercial aircraft, installation of runway lighting, and navigational aids.

In his remark during the flag-off ceremony, Governor Lawal restated that his government is poised to establish Zamfara state as a compelling investment destination that will attract investments locally and internationally.

“Honourable Minister, guests, ladies, and gentlemen, the airport will have a modern terminal building with passenger facilities, including check-in counters, automated baggage handling systems, waiting areas, and customs and immigration services buildings. This is in addition to an air traffic control tower equipped with state-of-the-art communication and surveillance systems.

“Further, it will include the construction of maintenance hangars, fire and rescue stations, fuel storage facilities, and other ancillary buildings, access roads to the airport, parking facilities for passengers and staff, water supply, sewage, electrical systems, and telecommunication infrastructure. There will also be a cargo wing and the landscaping of the airport surroundings to enhance the project’s aesthetic appeal.

“The Gusau Airport project is intended to be a smart airport designed to accommodate domestic and international flights, providing a critical gateway for the state and the entire region. It will have the capacity to land most aeroplanes. It is intended to facilitate more accessible and more efficient travel to and from Zamfara State, promoting social interaction, business, and tourism. The project will be handled by Triacta Nigeria Limited, with JBI Tech Consult as the consulting firm. Under the contractual agreement, the whole project is 30 months.

“The economic benefits and multiplier effect of the Gusau Airport Project are quite enormous as it will have a tremendous impact on the ease of doing business and other social interactions in Zamfara State. It will open direct air access to our state and eliminate the difficulties our businessmen and women often encounter in exporting and importing goods and services.”

Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, expressed that Zamfara had previously been disadvantaged concerning facilities. While other parts of the Northwest have good airports, Zamfara has been left behind despite being an agricultural hub of the Northwest.

“But it is better late than never. An international journalist called me and asked whether Zamfara needed an airport. I firmly believe that having an airport in Zamfara is more than just a matter of commercial viability; it is a crucial social amenity for the people. Looking around today, I am convinced that the state is fully ready for this development.

“I want to come here next year to flag off Hajj operations. The pilgrims of Zamfara suffered for many years in other states to board a plane to the holy land. It will never happen again. For that, my brother, Governor Dauda Lawal, I stand by you. I stand with you, and I stand with the people of Zamfara to make this a reality.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 20, 2024

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Jun 15 2024

GOV. LAWAL DECORATES 20 GALLANTS ZAMFARA COMMUNITY PROTECTION GUARDS, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL DECORATES 20 GALLANTS ZAMFARA COMMUNITY PROTECTION GUARDS, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal has promised to fully support the families of the Zamfara Community Protection Guards (CPG) members who lost their lives in the fight against banditry.

Twenty Community Protection Guards (CPG) were honoured with gallantry medals for their exceptional performance on Thursday at the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the decorated guards performed exceptionally well.

According to the statement, the decorated guards were led by Brig. General Lawal Bature Mohammed, the state commandant of the Community Protection Guards.

“On Thursday, Governor Dauda Lawal decorated 20 Community Protection Guards (CPGs) who performed extraordinarily well in discharging their duties. All 20 guards were at the frontline fighting bandits to ensure the return of peace in Zamfara State.”

During his speech, Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated his administration’s dedication to the welfare of the guards and pledged full support for the families of those who lost their lives.

“Consider decorating you as a way to motivate you to do more in this significant sacrifice that you are undertaking.

“We can’t compensate you for your service to the state and humanity; all we can do is encourage and motivate you for your gallantry.

“I want to reassure you that we have a plan in place for the families of CPG members who lost their lives in the line of duty. We will take care of all their needs and provide them with all the necessary support.”

Earlier, Brig. Gen. Lawal Bature Mohammed, the Commandant of the Community Protection Guards, said that the 20 guards were selected from various local government areas of the state based on their performances.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 15, 2024

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Jun 14 2024

ZAMFARA GOV’T BEGINS PAYMENT OF MINIMUM WAGE, SETTLES JUNE SALARY AHEAD OF EID CELEBRATION

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA GOV’T BEGINS PAYMENT OF MINIMUM WAGE, SETTLES JUNE SALARY AHEAD OF EID CELEBRATION

Governor Dauda Lawal has commenced the payment of the 30 thousand naira minimum wage to Zamfara civil servants.

Last month, the governor announced in a meeting with the leadership of the Zamfara State chapter of the labour union that he would begin paying minimum wage in June.

In a statement issued on Friday in Gusau, the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that Zamfara civil servants started receiving their June salary on the 12th, ahead of the Eidil Adha celebration.

He added that the state government had fulfilled its pledge to pay workers the minimum wage, which was reflected in the already-paid June salary.

“The Zamfara state government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, has disbursed the June salary to support workers in preparing for the upcoming Eid celebration.

“This is in line with the fulfilment of the promise made by the governor last month to implement the 30 thousand naira minimum wage.

“Before now, civil servants in Zamfara received a minimum wage as low as seven thousand naira.

“The government has been worker-friendly since its inception, ensuring the payment of three months withheld salaries, leave grants, owed gratuities, and timely payment of salaries.

“The government will continue to make further efforts to reform and rejuvenate the Zamfara civil service.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 14, 2024

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May 26 2024

EDUCATION IS AN ENABLER FOR OPPORTUNITIES, SAYS ZAMFARA GOVERNOR

PRESS STATEMENT

EDUCATION IS AN ENABLER FOR OPPORTUNITIES, SAYS ZAMFARA GOVERNOR

Zamfara Governor, Dauda Lawal described education as an enabler that provides the space and opportunity for easy social mobility worldwide.

The governor attended the Federal University, Gusau’s combined third and fourth convocation ceremony on Saturday at the university’s convocation arena.

A statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal announced the state government’s scholarship for the overall best-graduating student.

While delivering his speech, Governor Lawal praised the university leadership for effectively utilizing limited resources despite operational constraints.

He said: “I am delighted to be with you today on the combined 3rd & 4th convocation ceremony of this incredible and promising university, the Federal University Gusau. I congratulate the university for achieving this feat despite the teething problems it has faced since its inception. I commend the parents, guardians, and all graduating students for dedicating their time and energy to attain this feat.
We look forward to a bright and fulfilling future despite the gloom of our challenges as a nation and people. We pray and are working round the clock to change the tide. These problems, too, shall pass by the unique Grace of Almighty Allah.”

The governor elaborated on his administration’s efforts to reform the educational system in Zamfara State after declaring a state of emergency last year.

“As a government, we are determined to educate all the children of Zamfara. Education is the enabler that provides the space and opportunity for easy social mobility.

“We have allocated a substantial amount of money to the education sector in our 2024 Appropriation and are hopeful to jack up the allocation to a higher level in 2025, 2026, and 2027. We hope to achieve the 25% to 30% recommended allocation to education as soon as possible. With reasonable allocation to the sector and efficient management of the resources, we are optimistic that we will revive the education infrastructure, hire more competent teachers, and train and retrain existing ones.

“We will also increase enrollment in both primary and post-basic schools through public enlightenment and the creation of better learning and teaching environments. Education is free, and we hope to make it compulsory as well.

“We have also made handsome budgetary allocations to our tertiary institutions in the state to begin the correction process of lifting them to efficient levels. The Zamfara State University is preparing to undergo, for the first time, accreditation of its programs by the National Universities Commission. We have directed contractors who were forced out of the site by the previous administration to return to the site, and we are hopeful that in the coming months, the university’s permanent site will be functional. At the same time, the NUC will accredit all courses.

“We inherited a state where the examination fees of WEAC and NECO to the tune of billions of Naira were not paid by the government for more than three years. We had to enter into special arrangements with the bodies, and payments have since commenced and will be completed as soon as possible.

“Within our limited resources, we will continue to render helping hands to the university. Our objective is to increase education in our state so that there is access and space for all our young people to be trained to attain the lofty heights that education provides.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 26, 2024

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May 23 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, VOWS INCREASED SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, VOWS INCREASED SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing more support for troops fighting banditry in Zamfara.

On Thursday, the governor presided over the Zamfara State Security Council meeting at the Government House in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the meeting discussed the state’s security situation and the ongoing large-scale onslaught against bandits.

According to him, the meeting was attended by all heads of the state’s security agencies, including the military, police, DSS, and others.

While addressing the heads of the security agencies, Governor Lawal commended the troops for the successes recorded so far in the fight against banditry.

“Today’s meeting will evaluate the state’s security situation, assess our progress, and pinpoint areas requiring intensified efforts to enhance the security of our people’s lives and property.

“As I have always emphasized to the security council, the priority of my administration is the security of lives and properties. Therefore, we are always prepared to provide all the necessary support to various security agencies in the state to help them carry out their duties diligently and effectively.

“I want to thank the federal government and the military for deploying additional troops to Zamfara. This strategic move aims to eliminate all bandits, and we have started seeing results.

“I also commend the successful arrest of a group of kidnappers in Gusau and the rescue of kidnapped victims across the state, including in Gusau, Maradun, Kauran Namoda, and other local government areas. These achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of the ongoing military operations in the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 23, 2024

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May 22 2024

WE’LL BEGIN N30,000 MINIMUM WAGE PAYMENT IN JUNE, ZAMFARA GOV. DECLARES

PRESS STATEMENT

WE’LL BEGIN N30,000 MINIMUM WAGE PAYMENT IN JUNE, ZAMFARA GOV. DECLARES

Governor Dauda Lawal has announced that his government will begin paying the minimum wage starting next month.

The governor announced this on Wednesday during a meeting with the leadership of the Zamfara State chapter of the Labour Union.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that implementing the minimum wage reflects the state government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare.

The statement added that the Zamfara State Government will start paying a minimum wage of 30 thousand Naira instead of seven thousand Naira effective June this year.

While addressing the leaders of the Zamfara State chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Governor Lawal reiterated that implementing the 30 thousand Naira minimum wage aimed at motivating Zamfara workers.

“Today, I want to announce to the Zamfara State Labour Union leaders that my government will commence payment of 30 thousand Naira minimum wage next month in June.

“Since assuming office as the governor of Zamfara State, my administration has implemented numerous civil service reforms to ensure workers’ welfare.

“We have achieved the payment of withheld three months salaries of workers, payment of leave grant, and other bonuses.

“My government has paid a total of N4,337,087,490 billion in four batches to state and local government retirees, which have not been paid since 2011.

“We have further plans to improve the efficiency of the civil service in Zamfara. No employee should be concerned about retirement, as we will ensure timely payment of retirement benefits without any delays. We are committed to our rescue mission.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 22, 2024

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May 20 2024

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF DISTRIBUTION OF TONNES OF ASSORTED COMMODITIES TO VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF DISTRIBUTION OF TONNES OF ASSORTED COMMODITIES TO VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has flagged off the distribution of tonnes of assorted commodities to vulnerable households in Zamfara.

The flag-off ceremony was held on Monday at the Zamfara State Commissioner for the Humanitarian Affairs office in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the Zamfara Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) handed various commodities to the State Government for distribution to the less privileged.

According to the statement, Dr. Ishaya Chonoko, the NEMA’s Zonal Director of the Northwest Zone, represented the agency’s Director General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, at the ceremony.

During his speech, Governor Lawal disclosed that the distribution comes at a crucial time as people are facing significant challenges due to bandit activities and the impact of recently introduced policies aimed at strengthening the nation’s economy.

He said: “I wish to express my gratitude to Mr President for his determination to end the menace of insecurity, as without this commitment, no meaningful achievements can be recorded in any sector that contributes to development. This assistance will undoubtedly provide much-needed relief to the beneficiaries and significantly support the ongoing efforts of the State Government in this regard.

“This effort by the Federal Government will complement my administration’s efforts to address the longstanding problem of banditry in the state and provide succor to our teeming populace.

“Since my assumption in office as the Governor, I have been working tirelessly to garner support for our fight against banditry and support the vulnerable people across the state, especially women, children, and the elderly. On behalf of the good people of Zamfara, I thank the Federal Government for this and numerous other supports extended to our state.

“Needless to say, these items will go a long way in alleviating the food difficulties faced by our people. I, therefore, urge those receiving the items to make the best use of them.

“With these few remarks, it is my pleasure, on behalf of the Government and the good people of Zamfara State, to receive 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted commodities and flag off their distribution to vulnerable residents of Zamfara State.

“May Almighty Allah continue to crown all our efforts with success at various levels of governance. May He also restore the legendary harmonious coexistence among our people. May these commodities serve their intended purpose of providing immediate relief to the vulnerable persons across the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 20, 2024

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May 15 2024

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS OVER RENEWED ONSLAUGHT AGAINST BANDITS, EXPRESSES SYMPATHY FOR AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS OVER RENEWED ONSLAUGHT AGAINST BANDITS, EXPRESSES SYMPATHY FOR AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the Joint Task Force for the renewed large-scale onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.

The military deployed more troops to Zamfara last weekend in its efforts to thwart the operations of bandits in volatile areas of the state.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, described the ongoing military onslaught as a necessary measure to disrupt the criminality of bandits in Zamfara.

The statement sympathizes with communities affected by recent bandit attacks in volatile areas while also assuring full and continued support by the state government to the troops at the frontline.

The statement read in parts: “The ongoing military operation in the volatile areas of Zamfara is highly commendable, especially considering the successes recorded since the start of the onslaught last weekend.

“The operation has resulted in significant successes in Bungudu, Tsafe, Maru, and Zurmi local government areas, leading to the elimination of the bandit kingpin, Abu Dan Dunkwuifa, famous for terrorizing villages in Bungudu and Maru.

“In Magama Mai Rake of Dansadau area in Maru LGA, the troops have successfully neutralized scores of bandits.

“The renewed military onslaught in Nasarawan Burkullu in Bukkuyum LGA resulted in the rescue of many kidnapped victims in Kamaru, Tungar Rogo, and Matsare villages, as well as the recovery of many rustled cows.

“The rumor that over 500 people were kidnapped is false and peddled by individuals who do not want peace to return to Zamfara State. Most of the identified volatile areas in Zamfara are undergoing extensive military operations, yielding positive results.

The governor further expresses sympathy for the communities that were recently attacked by bandits in the state.

“The Zamfara State Government wishes to express sympathy with communities recently attacked by bandits. We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of the lives and properties of the people.

“Our government will continue to support the troops fighting insecurity and extend all necessary emergency support to the victims of banditry in the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 15, 2024

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