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.
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
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
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
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
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
TRANSPORT WORKERS ENDORSE GOV. LAWAL FOR SECOND TERM FOR IMPROVING INFRASTRUCTURE IN ZAMFARA
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has honoured Governor Dauda Lawal for his leadership in advancing Zamfara State’s transport sector and infrastructure.
On Wednesday, the NURTW presented the Award of Excellence to Governor Lawal at the Dome Pavilion, Government House, Gusau.
A statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the transport union also endorsed Governor Lawal for a second term.
The statement noted that NURTW Board Chairman, Dr Najeem Usman Yasin, led a powerful delegation including the union’s National President, Musiliu Akinsanya (MC Oloumo), and other senior officials.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the endorsement by the NURTW clearly shows the synergy between the transport sector and Zamfara State Government is yielding positive outcomes.
He said, “I warmly welcome elder statesman Alhaji (Dr.) Najeem Usman Yasin (Makaman Gusau), Chairman of the Board of Trustees. As the first Zamfara State NURTW Chairman after 1996, your return is symbolic. You founded transport unionism in Zamfara, and we are proud of your legacy.
“I also warmly welcome the dynamic National President, Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya (MC Oluomo), alongside your national administrative team. Your focus on structural reform and professionalising the transport industry across Nigeria is highly commendable.
“I am deeply humbled by the two honours bestowed on me today. First, I accept the Award of Excellence as a recognition of our efforts and a pledge to do more. Second, I am grateful for the endorsement for a second term from NURTW, a key grassroots group, which affirms that our policies positively impact ordinary citizens.
“When we took leadership, we promised Zamfara State a rebirth. We knew an efficient, safe transport sector was essential for a thriving economy. This led to the distribution of 50 subsidised mass transit vehicles to NURTW members to improve livelihoods and public commuting. It also prompted a major renovation of the Zamfara State Council Secretariat to give transit workers a dignified environment.”
Earlier, NURTW Board Chairman Dr Najeem Usman Yasin stated that the union’s leadership had observed Governor Dauda Lawal’s achievements over his three years in office.
“We are in Gusau today to appreciate your efforts by presenting you with an Award of Excellence. We feel it is our duty as leaders of the union to find time to come and show the whole world what you have done.
“By 1st October 2026, Zamfara will be 30 years of creation. Governor Lawal is surely a gift to Zamfara State. With the transformation he has achieved in three years, he has brought Zamfara to world standards.
“I want to, on behalf of the NURTW, endorse Governor Dauda Lawal for re-election and also call on all members of the union to support and work towards his re-election in 2027 for the continuation of the good works he has started.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor September 09, 2026
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
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
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
