EIDL FITR: GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PREACHES UNITY AND PEACE
Governor Dauda Lawal has appealed to the people of Zamfara State to embrace unity and peace.A statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, felicitates the Muslim community for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan fasting.He urged the Muslim community in Zamfara State and beyond to reflect deeply on the sacrifices and devotion to Allah made during Ramadan.He said: “My dear Muslim brothers and sisters in Zamfara State and beyond, I extend the compliments of the seasons and my heartfelt congratulations as we mark the end of the year 1446 AH Ramadan fast. This holy month has been a time of deep reflection, sacrifice, and devotion to Allah (SWT).“As we celebrate the Eid-el Fitr, I urge every one of us to carry forward the virtues of discipline, patience, and generosity that Ramadan has instilled in us.“The challenges before us are enormous and require collective effort and cooperation to be addressed. Let us therefore set aside our differences, work together as one people, and support the government’s agenda for rescuing and rebuilding our dear State.”Governor Lawal also appreciated the efforts of religious and community leaders for their continued guidance in advancing harmony and promoting the values that bind people together.“As we gather with our loved ones to mark this joyous occasion, let us put our state in prayers for divine intervention as we work round the clock to address the myriad challenges facing our dear state. May Allah (SWT) accept our acts of worship, forgive our shortcomings, and bless our State and the nation at large with lasting peace and prosperity. EID MUBARAK”SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor April 1st, 2025
GOV. DAUDA LAWAL RECEIVES CHIEF OF AIR STAFF, COMMENDS AIR FORCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COLLABORATION WITH TROOPS
Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to more collaboration with the troops operating in Zamfara State.
On Thursday, the governor hosted Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, during his official visit to Zamfara.
The Air Force Chief visited Zamfara regarding the airstrike incident that resulted in the deaths of 11 civilians near Gidan Makera in the Zurmi local government area on January 11, 2025.
The civilian casualties were members of the local vigilante who were mistakenly identified as the bandits fleeing precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma.
In his remark, Governor Dauda Lawal commended the Airforce’s timely response to distress calls in volatile areas across Zamfara State.
“I want to express my appreciation for the Chief of the Air Staff, who, before his visit today, sent a strong delegation led by one of the most senior officers from the headquarters to commiserate with us and the people of Zamfara. He sent a delegation to Zamfara on two separate occasions.
“I want to reiterate that when the incident occurred, we addressed the media, clarifying that it was not intentional but rather an accident. The presence of the Chief of Air Staff in Zamfara reflects exceptional professionalism and concern.
The governor noted that the Nigerian Air Force is crucial in combating banditry in Zamfara, Northwest, and the entire nation. “I appreciate the Chief of the Air Staff for the Air Force’s contributions. They promptly respond whenever we reach out.
“We are clear about our stance. We have made it known to every listening ear that we are not ready and will never negotiate with the bandits. You can all attest that our position is paying off, as we are beginning to see results with peace gradually returning to Zamfara.
“I would like to take this opportunity to inform the Air Marshal that we are constructing an airport in Zamfara. I appeal that once the airport is completed, we would like an Air Force hangar to ensure swift operations in the state.
“We will keep contacting you because we need the Air Force. We can’t thank you enough for making this visit. For us in Zamfara, it’s a significant morale booster that you traveled all the way from Abuja. From our side, I assure you that we will keep engaging with you and do everything possible to support the troops fighting banditry. I wish you a safe flight back to Abuja.”
Earlier, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Governor Dauda Lawal for his cooperation in addressing the tragic situation of the accidental airstrike that occurred in Zamfara.
“You may recall that on January 11, 2025, airstrikes were carried out in Zamfara following an intelligence report of bandit activity in Gidan Makera in Maradun LGA. The area was targeted in pursuit of the terrorists associated with bandit Bello Turji. A few days after the strike, a news report claimed that the airstrike had mistakenly hit members of a vigilante group.
“Deeply concerned by the allegation, I immediately constituted a committee for a holistic assessment and investigation of the alleged strike. The fact-finding team has since submitted their report and findings, which confirmed that 11 members of the local vigilante were unintentionally killed.
“Our visit this morning is to express our sympathy to you, the families of the victims, and the good people of Zamfara regarding the tragic incident.”
The governor and the Chief of Air Staff held a private meeting with the families of the airstrike victims, along with 11 others who were injured.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor March 06, 2025
OPERATION SAFE CORRIDOR: UNCONDITIONALLY SURRENDER YOUR WEAPONS BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE, GOV. LAWAL WARNS BANDITS
Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to persistently pursuing bandits until they are all effectively defeated, destroyed, and subdued. The governor handed over the facility the Zamfara State Government provided to establish the Operation Safe Corridor Headquarters of the Northwest states.A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that Operation Safe Corridor will provide the opportunity for disarmament, deradicalization, and integration of repentant bandits back into society.The statement added that the initiative was modeled after the Operation Safe Corridor initiative in the Northeast, which successfully de-radicalized and reintegrated former Boko Haram fighters.“The Northwest program seeks to offer a structured exit for individuals involved in banditry. The initiative will involve vocational training, psychological support, and ideological reorientation.”In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the state government provided the facility as a gesture to assist the Federal Government in tackling the ongoing issue of insurgency that has impacted Zamfara and the Northwest for more than a decade.“I wish to restate once more the commitment of our administration to support these initiatives and other effective tactics used in taking this fight to the bandits’ enclaves until they are all effectively routed, decimated, and dominated. “But for those of them who intend to surrender their arms unconditionally and willingly, they are free to do so. Establishing Operation Safe Corridor Headquarters of the Northwest will allow for Disarmament, Deradicalization, and Integration of repentant bandits into society.“On this note, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, OFR, for finding Zamfara State worthy to host the 3rd Operation Safe Corridor in the Country.“I also want to thank the Chairman of the Operation Safe Corridor Implementation Committee Northwest, Major General EV Onumajoro, who is also the Chief of Defence Operations, Nigeria Defence Headquarters, and his team for finding Zamfara suitable to site the Headquarters of this important unit.“Lastly, we appreciate Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his effort and support to security agencies working in the State.“What is needed further is consolidating the gains in converting banditry and other violent crimes. I wish to assure you of our commitment to do all to ensure that this program succeeds. For us here today, this is the birth of the Zamfara model on DDDRRR – Demobilization, disengagement, deradicalization, Rehabilitation, Reconciliation, and reintegration.“With these few remarks, I wish to formally hand over this facility to serve as the Northwest Headquarters of Operation Safe Corridor for the good of Zamfara State and our beloved Nigeria.”Earlier, Major General Onumajuru, representing the Chief of Defence Staff, commended Governor Lawal for his support and assistance to the troops in the fight against banditry in Zamfara.“Operation Safe Corridor is a non-kinetic line of operation. It serves as a pathway to peace and reintegration. After taking over this facility, we will continue to engage with His Excellency and the people of Zamfara, who are essential stakeholders in this project, to ensure synergy and cooperation.SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor February 13, 2025
FOR THE RECORD: NEGOTIATING WITH BANDITS WILL NEVER BE PART OF OUR STRATEGY – GOV. DAUDA LAWAL
Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated that his administration is not willing to negotiate with bandits in Zamfara State.
The governor was misquoted in an exclusive interview he granted to the BBC Hausa service over the weekend.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the BBC Hausa service interview was mischievously translated by some media platforms to mislead the public on the position of the State Government.
He added that the Zamfara State government has successfully combat banditry through its aggressive strategy of an all-out offensive against the bandits operating in the state.
The statement read in part: “The banditry issue has been a significant concern for people across Zamfara State, Northwest, and the entire country for decades.
“This is one reason Governor Dauda Lawal stated in his campaign manifesto before the 2023 general election that security would be his top priority, pledging to implement measures to address the situation.
“Governor Lawal has been vindicated as it represents a promise that has been kept and fulfilled.
“Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration has prioritized the security of Zamfara State, and it has taken a clear stance from the beginning that negotiating with bandits is nothing but a ‘snipe hunt.’
“In various media interviews, the governor has restated that the Zamfara State Government will not negotiate with the bandits terrorizing the state.
“It should be made clear and on record that Governor Dauda Lawal’s position remains undisputed: no responsible government will negotiate with killers from a position of weakness. Negotiations should only occur from a position of strength.
“Governor Lawal’s BBC Hausa interview has shown that his position is consistent and not contradictory. He has maintained from the outset that if there is any opportunity for negotiation, the bandits must surrender their weapons and repent without any conditions or terms attached.
“The strategy we are implementing to combat banditry is producing remarkable results, as many volatile areas of the state are experiencing a return to peace. All that resonates from Zamfara is the success narrative of leaders and hundreds of bandits eliminated daily.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor February 11, 2025
GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS DSS FOR INTERCEPTING ARMS CACHE IN ZAMFARA, SAYS BANDITRY ON THE DECLINE
Governor Dauda Lawal commended the Department of State Services for intercepting an arms shipment bound for Zamfara State.
On Tuesday, the Department of State Services director in Zamfara displayed the intercepted weapons and ammunition to the governor at the government house in Gusau.
A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the intercepted weapons comprised a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG), Two Machine Guns, Nine AK47 rifles, Two Pistols, Nineteen Magazines, and more than a thousand live rounds of ammunition.
The statement also noted that the suspected gunrunner was followed by Department of State Services personnel from the Niger Republic and was arrested on the Zurmi/Kauran Namoda highway in Zamfara State.
While examining the intercepted weapons, Governor Dauda Lawal highlighted the fruitful collaboration between the troops and the Zamfara State government in combating banditry.
“I must praise the troops, the military, the DSS, and the police, especially the Department of State Services, for successfully executing such a significant arrest.
“I want to emphasize that these successes, along with others in addressing banditry in the state, are a result of the collaboration and support provided by the Zamfara State government to all security forces.
“We will continue to support the troops in whatever way we can to encourage them to keep up their good work.
“It will be interesting to know that most of these criminals are indigenes of Zamfara. They’re not foreigners, and this arrested individual is not the only one. We have had more over the last few weeks, but this is the only one we present to the public. Such arrests have occurred daily.
“Banditry is declining in Zamfara. We have seen that. I urged the people of Zamfara to give all the necessary support to the troops.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor January 29, 2025
ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: GOVERNOR LAWAL PROMISES ENHANCED WELFARE FOR FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES
Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the families of brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The governor participated in the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration on Wednesday at the trade fair complex in Gusau, the state capital.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Dauda Lawal donated ₦20 million to the Zamfara State Chapter of the Nigeria Legion while launching the 2025 remembrance emblem a day before the celebration.
The statement added that the governor inspected a guard of honor mounted by the Armed Forces and members of the Nigerian Legion. “Governor Lawal also led the wreath laying and ordered a one-minute silence in honor of the fallen heroes.”
In his remark, Governor Lawal emphasized that Remembrance Day is a tribute to fallen heroes and a call to action for all the people of Zamfara State and the entire country.
“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated nationwide on the 15th day of January every year to commemorate and salute the selfless souls of our veterans who fought gallantly to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, who laid down their lives in sacrifice, so that we may live in peace.
“We appreciate and value their commitment and sacrifice, which have made a difference in our lives today. With gratitude and a sense of duty, we pledged to continue to remember them and support the loved ones they left behind.
“This day is a tribute to our fallen heroes and a call to action for all people of Zamfara State and the entire country. It is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those brave individuals and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values and principles they fought and died for. The legacy of our veterans should inspire us to cherish the relative peace that we enjoy today and to strive for a better tomorrow.
“We must not forget the importance of supporting the families of these fallen heroes and the veterans who fought so that we can go to sleep and who still bear the scars of their service to the nation. Their resilience and dedication must remind us of our responsibility to ensure their well-being. By doing so, we honor their sacrifices and demonstrate our gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our nation.”
The governor noted that, despite limited resources, significant progress is being made in addressing the state’s internal security issues through various measures.
“We must remain vigilant against occasional attacks on soft targets. This administration has not only provided logistical support and essential resources. Still, it has also ensured the well-being of families of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. We are committed to covering medical expenses for those injured in security operations and supporting our heroes and their families.
“As part of the efforts of my administration to compressively address the security challenges, we have provided security vehicles equipped with advanced gadgets, along with motorcycles, to the security operatives. This initiative enhances their ability to access difficult terrains to ensure that no part of our state is vulnerable.
“We remain committed to strengthening strategic alliances with neighboring states, security agencies, and other stakeholders to tackle the security challenges affecting our dear state decisively, as collaboration is key to achieving sustainable peace and stability.”
INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOV’T COMMENDS AIRFORCE, COMMISERATES WITH CIVILIAN CASUALTIES
Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the Nigerian military’s efforts in the renewed onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a successful airstrike over the weekend, decisively targeted bandits attacking villages in Zurmi and Maradun Local Government Areas.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Gusau, the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, expressed deep condolences to the families of civilian casualties affected by the airstrike at Tungar Kara in Zurmi LGA.
The statement clarified that the civilian casualties were members of the local vigilante who were mistakenly identified as the bandits fleeing from Gidan Makera in the Boko district of Zurmi LGA.
The statement reads in part: “We have received multiple positive reports of precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma over the weekend in troubled Maradun and Zurmi local government areas.
“This intervention by the military has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the bandits and has shown the commitment of the Nigeria Air Force to carrying out its constitutional mandate of protecting civilians and safeguarding the lives and property of the people.
“As a responsible government, we assure all the people of the State that the Government of Zamfara State remains steadfast in its resolve to sustain the gains made in the fight against banditry and related criminalities. The recent success indicates that the collaborative efforts between the state and federal security agencies yield positive results.
“In light of these achievements, the state government reaffirms its commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to sustain their operations and bring lasting peace to the state.
“We will continue to offer support to enhance intelligence sharing, provide logistics, and strengthen community engagement, all in the spirit of a comprehensive approach to security and achieving the ultimate goal of restoring normalcy across all parts of the state.
“Regrettably, some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and local vigilantes were also affected during the operation in Tungar Kara, resulting in the loss of lives. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant them Jannah.
“The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen JTF personnel and assures them that the sacrifices of the deceased will not go in vain. The government will provide necessary support and assistance to the bereaved families.
“Finally, the government calls on people to be vigilant, report all suspicious activities, and cooperate fully with security personnel. Through collective effort and unity of purpose, the fight against banditry can be won, bringing enduring peace and stability to Zamfara State.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor January 12, 2025
DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS ZAMFARA, LAUDS GOV. LAWAL’S COMMITMENT TO FIGHT BANDITRY
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has lauded Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment and continued support to the military operations in Zamfara State.
On Thursday, the minister visited the Zamfara Government House and the Joint Taskforce Northwest Operation Fansar Yamma headquarters in Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the visit aims to enhance collaboration between the state and the Ministry of Defence.
The statement added that the minister discussed issues of concern as a follow-up to governors Lawal and Radda’s visit to the Defence Ministry earlier this week.
In his remark, Governor Lawal restated his government’s willingness to cooperate with all security agencies to ensure a peaceful Zamfara.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Minister of Defense, who is here today to discuss the security situation in Zamfara.
“Some few days ago, the governor of Katsina state and I were in the minister’s office at the Defence Ministry, where we discussed pressing issues.
“You can see, after two days, the Minister is here with us. This is commendable and a show of commitment from the minister’s side.
“Zamfara is facing many security challenges, but as a responsible government, we are all out to seek assistance, synergy, and cooperation. We are committed to providing all assistance to the troops.
“We are taking this fight to the bandits because we won’t continue to remain defensive. What I have seen so far suggests that the banditry issue will become history, God willing.
“I have made commitments to the Minister. In addition, I have procured ten bulletproof buffalo gun trucks for the military. Other logistics are also in place and will be made available to the security forces to aid them in fighting banditry.
“If we could address the banditry challenges in Zamfara, 90% of the problem would be solved.
“I appeal to the troops, especially the military, that we need them. I am confident they have what it takes to finish this fight.
“I am committed, and I am with you. I thank you all, especially the Honourable Minister who creates time to be with us.”
Earlier, The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, said the successes of the ongoing operation against bandits are linked to the continued support of Governor Lawal’s administration.
“We have started to see improvements, thanks to the support of His Excellency, the Governor of Zamfara State.
“He provided accommodation for the command, logistics, long-distance surveillance cameras, vehicles, and fuel. He even supplied the troops with gun trucks. Your Excellency, we thank you.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor October 24, 2024
INSECURITY: GOVERNORS LAWAL, RADDA MEET DEFENCE MINISTER, NSA IN ABUJA
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda held a closed-door meeting with Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
The two strategic meetings took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Defence and the National Security Adviser’s office.
A statement issued by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the meeting extensively discussed a recommendation from the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) security committee.
The statement added that the group organized a two-day roundtable discussion in Abuja on January 23, 2024, chaired by former Head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar.
“Yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State met with defence minister Badaru Abubakar at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
“The governors deliberated on crucial issues concerning insecurity and explored ways to enhance collaboration between the two states and the Ministry of Defence.
“After the meeting at the Ministry of Defence, both governors and the defence minister went to the office of the National Security Adviser for another meeting on insecurity.
“The meeting at the National Security Adviser’s office adopted the recommendations of the recommendations from the Security Summit hosted by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG).
“In January this year, the Coalition of Northern Groups organized a two-day roundtable discussion chaired by former head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar, with all the major stakeholders from the northern part of Nigeria in attendance.
“The adoption of the security committee’s recommendations marks a significant milestone in addressing the complex insecurity issues in Northern Nigeria.
“These are part of the strategies and collaborations that the Katsina and Zamfara state governors are using to combat the issue of banditry in their respective states.”
At the meeting, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) was represented by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Nastura Ashiru Shariff; the Chairman of the CNG Security Committee, Alhaji Bashir Yusuf; Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Katsina; General Sarkin Yaki Bello, Ambassador Buhari Bala and General Sa’ad Abubakar.
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor October 23, 2024
WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO RESCUE AND REBUILD ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL TELLS RELIGIOUS LEADERS
Governor Dauda Lawal has urged the Zamfara State Council of Ulama to collaborate with his administration to rescue and rebuild the state.
The governor made the call during the inauguration of the Zamfara State Ulama Consultative Council, which took place on Tuesday at the council chambers in the government house, Gusau.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, emphasized the Council’s crucial advisory role in influencing government decisions to align with religious principles.
He added that over the past 21 years, the Ulama Council has made invaluable contributions to the state and society in Zamfara, demonstrating its significant influence on government decisions.
While delivering his remark, Governor Lawal assured the Ulama Consultative Forum that his doors are always open to receive the council’s invaluable advice on matters of state policy and the general well-being of the people.
“As we gather here today, I am filled with profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us the opportunity to inaugurate the newly reconstituted Council of Ulama.
“This Council, also known as the Ulama Consultative Council, was established in 2003 as a critical institution in the government’s drive to strengthen Sharia implementation in Zamfara State. The Council comprises eminent Islamic scholars and guides our society’s moral, spiritual, and economic development.
“The Council’s enactment law, which is Law Number 6 of 2003, has made elaborate provisions, among other things, on the functions of the Council.
“Some of these are screening, recommending, and advising on the qualifications, competence, and fitness of a person to be appointed as Sharia court Alkali.
“Issuing responses to questions (fatwas) or issues in Islamic jurisprudence.
“Receiving research findings relating to new developments emanating from technological advancement and other contemporary issues.
“Advising the Governor on the conformity or otherwise with the principles of Sharia in respect of any bill for a Law.
Furthermore, the governor charged the religious leaders to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with passion, commitment, and due diligence after the reconstitution and inauguration of the Council.
“You are all esteemed Islamic scholars that society looks up to for moral and spiritual guidance. You should not rest on your laurels in carrying out your responsibilities as members of the Council of Ulama and as the pillars of society.”
SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor July 30, 2024
