Farminig is our pride
Farminig is our pride
Zamfara has emerged 1st in the Digital Technology Infrastructure Development category of the Peer-Review session of the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.This underscores Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment to advancing technology and innovation, heralding a significant step towards modernizing our digital infrastructure.
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PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL PRESENTS N545 BILLION 2025 ‘RESCUE BUDGET 2.0’ TO ZAMFARA ASSEMBLY, PRIORITIZES SECURITY, HEALTH AND EDUCATION
Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting a more pragmatic approach to managing Zamfara State’s finances.
On Thursday, the governor presented the Zamfara State House of Assembly with an estimated N545,014,575,000.00 as a proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that for the first time in Zamfara, the Ministry of Health takes 11% of the proposed budget’s total sum, amounting to N62,124,702,98.
The statement added that the educational sector accounts for 14% of the total sum, which also amounts to N79, 664, 861, 461.
“Security, which constitutes 6% of the total amount, totals N32, 288, 70, 000. Agriculture accounts for 6% amounting to N34, 716, 18, 000.”
Delivering his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized that the 2025 budget represents a roadmap for addressing the pressing needs of Zamfara state.
He said: “It is a vision for the future of Zamfara. It is also a testament to our resolve to transform challenges into opportunities and deliver a more prosperous, secure state for our people.
“Over the past 18 months, we have achieved remarkable revenue growth of 240.44%, elevating our state from 36th to 26th in Nigeria’s internal revenue generation standings. This is a testament to the rigorous revenue generation drive and strategic measures implemented by this administration to block revenue leakages.
“We have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to financial sustainability through enhanced accountability, improved collection systems, and the expansion of revenue sources.
“While this achievement is commendable, it is crucial to note that the increase is in relative terms rather than absolute. We will ensure revenue-generating MDAs redouble their efforts by thoroughly exploring all potential sources and maximizing opportunities.
“To speed up the process of economic development and secure a brighter future for our people, we have embarked on transformative projects with significant potential to strengthen the state’s financial standing. A notable example is the Gusau International Airport, which this administration awarded to align with our strategic vision.
“We are advancing critical infrastructure projects in roads, healthcare, agriculture, rural development, and education. These initiatives are carefully designed to build a resilient economy capable of improving the livelihoods of our citizens.
“We have sustained the culture of reforms in the public sector, which we initiated shortly after assumption of office. These reforms aim to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure the effective utilization of public resources. A key aspect of these reforms is the digitization of government services. Notable examples include the digitization of the Executive Council chambers, land registry, revenue generation, and collection system.
“We have introduced performance-based budgeting and strengthened financial oversight mechanisms. Budgets are no longer annual rituals often not adhered to; instead, they are strategic tools for achieving developmental goals. We aim to build a transparent, accountable governance framework that inspires public trust and drives socio-economic development.
“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the 2025 budget proposal has been meticulously crafted to reflect our aspirations for a prosperous Zamfara State. Like the 2024 budget, it prioritizes capital expenditure over recurrent costs, ensures equitable resource distribution, and lays a solid foundation for sustainable development. With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, I am confident that we can overcome our challenges and achieve the transformative growth that Zamfara State deserves.”
Governor Lawal said that the total estimate for the 2025 fiscal year is N545,014,575,000.00, which represents ₦151,680,000,000.00 for Recurrent Expenditures and ₦393,334,575,000.00 for Capital Expenditures.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 05, 2024
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL COMMITS TO JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE AND EXPEDITED JUSTICE DELIVERY IN ZAMFARA STATE
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed that his administration is dedicated to prioritizing initiatives that improve timely justice delivery and protect the judiciary’s independence.
The governor said this on Monday at the opening ceremony of a capacity-building workshop for magistrates, registrars, and court clerks at the Zamfara State High Court of Justice, which was held at the High Court complex in Gusau.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the conference provides a platform for judicial officers and stakeholders to assess the judiciary’s performance, identify challenges, and set new goals.
In his opening remark, Governor Lawal acknowledged the commitment and exemplary leadership of the State’s Chief Judge, Justice Kulu Aliyu, OFR, FNJI, and the entire Judicial branch for their demonstrated commitment to discharge their responsibilities.
He said: “The consistent commitment of Her Lordship to the dispensation of justice inspires confidence and increases trust in the Judiciary as a critical institution in a constitutional democracy. This administration stays fully committed to supporting the judiciary in all its endeavors.
“My government will continue to prioritize initiatives that enhance justice delivery on time and safeguard the independence of this noble arm of government.”
Governor Lawal noted that the workshop’s importance can not be overemphasized. “It will improve the skills and enrich the participants’ knowledge so that they are better prepared to serve and meet public expectations. Our people look up to you as the last hope for the common man in dispensing justice, fairness, and protection of their rights. Judicial officers and staff must be well prepared to meet these expectations, particularly in these challenging times.
“My Lord Chief Judge, Judges of Zamfara State High Court, distinguished participants, it is gratifying to note the proactive measures the Judiciary is taking in preparing and equipping Magistrates, Registrars, and other staff with the requisite training for efficient and effective delivery of justice.
“In this context, it is crucial to emphasize technological necessity advancements of embracing through the automation of the entire judicial system in the state. This has the potential to streamline processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency, thereby ensuring speedy dispensation of justice. I believe that if we integrate modern tools into judicial operations, we will build a robust system responsive to the needs of our people and modern times.”
The governor also urges the judiciary to stay vigilant against a few individuals whose behavior may undermine the integrity of the noble institution. “Identifying and addressing misconduct within the system is a shared responsibility that demands diligence, steadfastness, integrity, and commitment.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 03, 2024
26th October, 2024 at Dr. Garba Nadama Hall, J.B. Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL ATTENDS AFREXIM INVESTMENT CONFERENCE IN KENYA, SAYS ZAMFARA STATE IS SEEKING TRANSPARENT PARTNERSHIPS
Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to focus on transparent and open development partnerships that leverage Zamfara State’s unique social and economic advantages.
The governor represented the Nigeria Governors Forum and was a panelist at the fourth Africa Sub-Sovereign Network Conference, held on Monday at the Swiss Grand Royal Hotel in Kisumu County, Kenya.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the conference, which started from November 25 to 27, was declared open by the President of Kenya, Dr. Williams Ruto.
The statement added that the theme for the AfsNET conference is “Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns.”
Governor Lawal, delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigeria Governors Forum, says this year’s theme of the AfsNET conference resonates with the developmental aspirations of African sub-national governments. “It challenges us to align our strategies and resources toward unlocking the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“In Nigeria, we recognize the critical role of sub-national governments in driving trade, investment, and economic growth. Our 36 states are diverse economic hubs, each with unique comparative advantages contributing to the national economy.
“One example of leveraging trade for sustainable development can be seen in the Kaduna State Agro-Allied Industrial Zone, a public-private partnership initiative designed to integrate agricultural production with processing and export.
“This project demonstrates how sub-sovereigns can harness local resources and the AfCFTA framework to enhance value addition and expand market access across Africa. Similarly, the Lekki Free Trade Zone has become a model of industrialization and foreign direct investment attraction in Lagos State. Its strategic location and integration into regional trade corridors highlight the importance of infrastructure and institutional support in realizing AfCFTA’s benefits.”
At the panel discussion on creating sustainable solutions for the development of the African Region, Governor Lawal highlighted that development and sustainability are intertwined concepts that aim to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.
“As governor within the Northwest sub-region of Nigeria, which includes six other Governors, we have created the Northwest Governors’ Forum to articulate and harmonize policies that will engender regional cooperation for sustainable development. This has already begun to yield results that facilitate prosperity within the sub-region.
“To sustain any development solution, the collaboration between governments at different levels in development efforts is critical and the way out. Decisive, accountable, and transparent institutions are needed to inspire confidence in the stakeholders.
On security, Governor Lawal emphasized that without a secure environment, governments cannot efficiently provide social services such as education, healthcare, gender equality, elimination of inequality, and foster economic empowerment of the most vulnerable, essential prerequisites for sustained development.
“Constitutional provisions limit the scope of a Governor in terms of providing security to the people he governs; nonetheless, we have made concerted efforts to ensure that our environment remains secure by establishing the Community Protection Guard (CPG), which has curtailed the level of insecurity experienced before the advent of my administration.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 27, 2024
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL RECEIVES FUGUS GOVERNING COUNCIL, ASSURES SUPPORT
Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing all necessary support to Federal University Gusau.
The pro-chancellor of the Federal University Gusau, Rt. Hon. Engineer Aminu Sani Isa led the governing council on a courtesy visit to Governor Dauda Lawal in his office at the government house on Tuesday.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the governing council commended the state government for its unending support of the university.
The statement added that while responding to the pro-chancellor, Governor Dauda Lawal pledged to always assist the university because of its role in human development.
The governor emphasized that the state government would continue collaborating with the university for development. “I would like to express my gratitude to the Federal University Gusau governing council for this visit. Such gatherings provide an opportunity to reflect and plan ways to enhance our educational sector for the benefit of our people.
“I am excited to hear that your institution will start offering MBBS. We were very strategic in upgrading our specialist hospitals to teaching hospitals, so a teaching hospital will be available when you begin.
“As you know, we are upgrading Yeriman Bakura Teaching Hospital into a fully equipped teaching hospital with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
“We are negotiating to acquire land nearby to build hostels for students’ comfort.
“Regarding land compensation, we have been actively addressing this issue. The special adviser for infrastructure will coordinate with the university management to find a solution.
“For some projects initiated by previous governments, I will send a team to assess their status and determine how we can complete them.
“We will explore ways to make a financial commitment to support you. In the long run, our community will benefit because the school is in Zamfara. We must do everything we can to provide assistance in all possible ways.”
Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University Gusau, Rt. Hon. Aminu Sani Isah commended Governor Dauda Lawal for the numerous projects he initiated for the university even before becoming Zamfara State’s governor.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 20, 2024
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF GUSAU ULTRA-MODERN MOTOR PARK, VOWS TO CREATE NUMEROUS JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to creating job opportunities for people whose livelihoods are closely tied to motor park activities.
On Monday, the governor flagged off the construction of Central Ultra-Modern Motor Park on Sokoto-Zaria Road in Gusau, the state capital.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the project awarded to Fieldmark Construction LTD will include ample parking spaces, rest areas for drivers, enhanced security installations, and a well-organized ticketing system to streamline operations.
During his remarks at the commissioning, Governor Dauda Lawal emphasized that the project is a vital part of his administration’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure in Gusau.
He said: “This initiative will enhance security, boost revenue generation, and enable our city to compete favourably with others across the country.
“This state-of-the-art motor park will feature modern facilities designed to accommodate commuters, passengers, and commercial motorists in a safe, efficient, and organized manner.
“Other essential components of this project include designated departure lines, a police outpost, a clinic, a fire brigade station, a mosque, an administrative block, a union office, public conveniences, a park hotel, a loading bay, a shopping mall, a travellers’ terminal, a waste disposal unit, a warehouse, a workshop, and a car wash area.
“During the construction phase, the project will employ both skilled and unskilled labourers, and once operational, the park will become a hub for commercial activities, which will benefit entrepreneurs, service providers, and countless others.
The Governor reaffirmed his conviction that providing critical infrastructure, such as the roads his administration began constructing shortly after assuming office—some of which were inaugurated during the first anniversary—is one of the most effective ways to stimulate business activities and build prosperity.
“Beyond its economic impact, this initiative also beautifies our state capital by our broader vision of creating a modern, vibrant, and liveable environment for our people.
“With these remarks, I am pleased to officially flag off the construction of the new Gusau Central Motor Park. May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala bless this endeavour and make it a source of immense prosperity and development for the people of Zamfara State.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 18, 2024
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV. LAWAL SWEARS IN 14 NEWLY ELECTED LG CHAIRMEN, PREACHES EQUITY AND FAIRNESS IN DISTRIBUTION OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Governor Dauda Lawal has urged the newly elected Zamfara local government chairmen to prioritize the welfare of their people and ensure equity and fairness in the distribution of development projects.
The Zamfara State Independent Electoral Commission (ZASIEC) declared candidates of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as winners of all the local councils’ chairmanship and councillorship elections held across the 14 LGA in the State on Saturday.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the elected chairmen were sworn in on Sunday by the Zamfara State Chief Judge, Justice Kulu Aliyu, at the old council chambers of the government house in Gusau.
The statement added that during the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Lawal commended the leadership of the Zamfara State Independent Electoral Commission (ZASIEC) for organizing free, fair, and credible elections.
The governor stressed that the ultimate goal of the local government system in Nigeria is to bring the government closer to the people at the grassroots. “This is especially crucial at this time, as local government councils, as the third tier of government, are vital in complementing the initiatives of the present administration to rescue the state from socio-economic issues and the security challenges affecting all parts of the state.
“Therefore, there is a need for synergy between the State and Local Government Councils to accelerate development at the grassroots levels, which, in turn, will place the entire State on the trajectory of growth and prosperity.
“I urge you to see your election as a call to service by prioritizing the welfare of your people and ensuring equity and fairness in the distribution of development projects. This should be achieved by leveraging various social investment programs and other laudable initiatives introduced by the present administration to create employment opportunities for our teeming youths, make them productive, and curb the incessant crimes bedevilling the state. This can only be achieved when you embrace transparency, accountability, and prudence in managing public resources.
“You must collaborate with the State Government, especially in light of the provisions of the 1999 constitution (as amended). The State Government will continue to collaborate with your councils to achieve our shared goals and build synergy for the development of our dear state.”
Governor Lawal further urged the elected chairmen to engage with their communities actively. “You should establish effective channels of communication, which are essential in understanding the needs of the people you serve. “Your leadership should embody compassion and inclusivity by ensuring that no segment of society is left behind. Particular attention should be given to the most vulnerable – women, children, people with special needs, and older people.
“Let me emphasize that you should not operate as separate entities from the State Government. You are an integral part of the machinery of governance. Therefore, you are expected to align your policies and programs with the six (6) priority areas of the present administration: Security, Education, Agriculture and food security, Economic growth and development, Health sector, and Infrastructural development.
“In this regard, it is imperative that you foster a culture of transparency and accountability in all your dealings. Ensure that your financial records are meticulously kept and periodically audited. This will enhance the credibility of your administrations and build the people’s confidence in your leadership.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 17, 2024
Faced with an unprecedented and embarrassing decay in the health sector in Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal declared a state of emergency on the sector immediately after he took over as the state chief executive.
To change the ugly scenario, Governor Lawal quickly started renovating,
modernising, upgrading, equipping, and building new general hospitals across the state.
One year on, these hitherto decrepit, understaffed and life-threatening general hospitals now wear a new look, with state-of-the-art facilities, trained and well-remunerated physicians and health workers for effective, safe, people-centred, timely, equitable, and integrated service delivery to the people.
PRESS STATEMENT
CSR: KEYSTONE BANK RENOVATES SCHOOLS IN ZAMFARA, SAYS GOV. LAWAL’S FEATS IN 17 MONTHS SURPASS OVER 20 YEARS OF PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATIONS
Keystone Bank Limited has commended Governor Lawal’s giant strides in human capital development in Zamfara State.
The bank’s Managing Director, Hassan Imam, led top management officials on a courtesy visit to the governor on Saturday at the Government House in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the bank is renovating Sarkin Kudu Primary School and Sambo Secondary School, all in the state capital, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
While addressing the bank’s management, Governor Lawal praised Keystone’s efforts and committed to making Zamfara State a favorable environment for all businesses.
“It is well known that we inherited a highly dysfunctional system in Zamfara State. However, this does not serve as an excuse for failing to perform. Instead, we are focused on finding the best ways to advance the state, and that is precisely what we are doing.
“Education is essential to everything we do in life today. It forms the backbone of a better society. In my administration, education is the second priority after security.
“I want to express my gratitude for this gesture. As I mentioned, this intervention will go down in history as a testament to your bank’s role in our success story.
“Insha’Allah, Zamfara will become an even greater state. I am committed to ensuring that we compete with other states in Nigeria in every aspect.
“I look forward to commissioning these schools shortly upon their completion. Thank you very much for this intervention.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Keystone Bank, Hassan Imam, disclosed that the management deliberated on the intervention area before deciding to focus on the complete renovation and overhaul of schools as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
“What you have achieved in just 17 months has surpassed what others have accomplished in over 20 years. You have excelled in education, health, and infrastructure. I don’t have enough time to list everything you have done for Zamfara State, but anyone visiting will witness the multi-billion-dollar construction of the metropolitan road.
“We are here to support you because we recognize the hard work you’re putting in. After much discussion, we decided to focus on education and chose two primary and secondary schools. We are conducting a complete renovation and overhaul of Sarkin Kudu Primary School and Sambo Secondary School, located in the state capital.
“As we speak, the contractors are already on site, and the work has commenced,” he said.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 09, 2024
