ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

PRESS STATEMENT

ZAMFARA HOSTS POLICE SECURITY SUMMIT AS GOVERNOR LAWAL VOWS NO NEGOTIATION WITH BANDITS

Governor Dauda Lawal has emphasised that bandits who refuse peace and threaten innocent people must face the full consequences of the law.

The Zamfara State Government hosted a three-day Northwest Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Police on Wednesday at the Government House, Gusau.

The Security Summit, themed ‘Appraising the Security Challenges in the Northwest Region’, was honoured by the presence of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

The summit brought together the leadership of the Nigeria Police, representatives of the Northwest States, heads of security and intelligence agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organisations.

While declaring the summit open, Governor Lawal commended the Inspector-General of Police and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for convening the summit and for choosing Zamfara State as the host.

He said, “This is significant because Zamfara remains at the frontline of the security challenges confronting the Northwest. It provides an appropriate setting for an honest assessment of our challenges and, more importantly, the development of practical solutions.

“The Northwest’s security crisis exceeds isolated crimes. Organised networks conduct banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling across borders, threatening livelihoods, food security, education, investment, and the social fabric. The summit also highlights urban threats such as thuggery, substance abuse, and radical infiltration.

“This reality demands moving beyond fragmented responses because criminal networks ignore state boundaries. Our security must operate cohesively. Intelligence in Zamfara can prevent attacks elsewhere, and operations nearby can disrupt threats in Zamfara.

“Accordingly, the Northwest needs stronger mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, inter-state surveillance, community policing, and sustained disruption of the financial, logistical and supply networks that sustain organised crime.”

The governor added that the summit represents some of the finest operational, intelligence and strategic experience within the Nigeria Police Force and the security ecosystem.

“We must, therefore, challenge ourselves to leave Gusau not merely with another diagnosis of insecurity, but with actionable options.

“I urge this summit to consider practical measures to cut off criminal networks’ supply chains and limit their movement. Criminal enterprises rely on logistics including routes, markets, intermediaries, financiers, and networks.

“We must confront operational questions: How do we disrupt supply chains? How do we limit criminals’ mobility across forests, communities, and borders? How do we strengthen control over vulnerable corridors without harming legitimate commerce? And how do we identify and dismantle networks of informants and facilitators enabling crime?”

Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said that the security of the Northwest is a collective responsibility because the region is of enormous importance to Nigeria.

“We are combining states to tackle the issue of insecurity. We have come together, we police together, we share intelligence together. We have made up our minds to take the fight to these criminals. We have made up our minds to do this; that is why we summoned this summit.”

“As Inspector-General of Police, I assure you that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to deploy its capabilities, personnel and partnerships towards securing the region and supporting the efforts of State Governments and other security agencies. But we also recognise that policing is most effective when it is supported by the people.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
August 19, 2026

STATE POLICE WILL GIVE GOVERNORS GENUINE AUTHORITY AS CHIEF SECURITY OFFICERS TO COMBAT INSECURITY -GOVERNOR LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

STATE POLICE WILL GIVE GOVERNORS GENUINE AUTHORITY AS CHIEF SECURITY OFFICERS TO COMBAT INSECURITY -GOVERNOR LAWAL

Governor Dauda Lawal said state police will go a long way toward tackling insecurity in the country by giving governors real authority as chief security officers of their states.

He made these remarks as a panellist at the Arise News Town Hall Summit: Building a National Consensus for State Police & National Security, held today at the Thisday Dome in Abuja.

Governor Lawal observed that insecurity has persisted in the states because the command and control structure has not been under the chief executives of the states.

He said that when state governments are responsible for the security of lives and property within their domains, the police would be better equipped and have more personnel to tackle crime.

“We’re being called chief security officers of our respective states; however, the command and control structure is not under the governors,” he said.

“I am happy with the recent development of state police because it allows us to keep to our responsibilities and for our people also to hold us accountable as far as the security situation is concerned in our respective states,” the governor said.

The governor further said that, “I strongly believe that, by the time we have state police, it will go a long way in solving a lot of the challenges, and we can then bear our names as proper chief security officers of our respective states.”

While dismissing claims of abuse by state executives, the governor noted that almost all states of the federation have one or more security apparatuses in place, and none of these security outfits has been used to oppress opposition in the states.

He, however, urged the lawmakers to put measures in place to prevent abuse.

“I support state police. I recognise people’s fears of possible abuse, but with the right processes in place, those fears will be allayed,” he said.

The summit aimed to build consensus on state police and broader national security reforms, as concerns over insecurity continue to dominate public discourse across Nigeria.

It brought together national security leaders, governors, lawmakers, civil society organisations, policy experts, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to secure communities and protect lives across the country.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 09, 2026

GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS FOR SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS AGAINST BANDITS ACROSS ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS FOR SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS AGAINST BANDITS ACROSS ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the troops of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fansan Yamma for achieving significant operational successes against bandits in Zamfara State.

The troops of the Joint Task Force (Northwest) Operation Fansan Yamma launched an elaborate and coordinated onslaught in the early hours of Thursday, May 7 2026, in the Kaura Namoda and Birnin Magaji Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

Following the encounter, troops effectively neutralised three gang leaders and recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition, which included an AK-47 rifle, a machine gun, a locally fabricated handgun, seven rifle magazines, and a total of 571 rounds of ammunition.

Governor Lawal described the renewed military offensive as timely, particularly due to the successful operation recorded on May 10, 2026, which disrupted a significant gathering of notorious terrorist leaders and neutralised several commanders.

The troops acted on an intelligence report that confirmed that the terrorists had converged at a concealed location in Tumfa Village, Shinkafi Local Government Area, with the intention to coordinate attacks and criminal activities targeting innocent communities in the state.

The Air Component launched a precision airstrike on the identified terrorist hideout that successfully destroyed the structure, which served as the terrorists’ meeting point.

The governor reiterated the Zamfara State Government’s commitment to ongoing support and logistics for the military and other security agencies operating in the state.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 10, 2026

DEFENCE MINISTER COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL FOR PROVIDING ARMOURED VEHICLES AND SURVEILLANCE DRONES TO ZAMFARA TROOPS

PRESS STATEMENT

DEFENCE MINISTER COMMENDS GOV. LAWAL FOR PROVIDING ARMORED VEHICLES AND SURVEILLANCE DRONES TO ZAMFARA TROOPS

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for procuring armoured personnel carriers, surveillance drones, and operational equipment for troops in Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the governor distributed armored vehicles and other operational equipment to troops at a ceremony held at the Government House, Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the highly 25 sophisticated Armored Personnel Carriers being procured and commissioned will enhance troop protection during deployments into high-risk areas across Zamfara.

The statement also noted that other equipment purchased by the Zamfara State Government includes an 80-meter endurance surveillance drone capable of covering 50 kilometers and operating continuously for eight hours.

Delivering his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal said the Defence Minister’s presence at the unveiling not only reinforces the depth of federal and Zamfara State synergy but also reflects a united front and collective resolve to establish and defend lawful authority.

He said, “For years, Zamfara State faced a security crisis disrupting life. Rural areas experienced instability, farmers faced uncertainty, and movement along key roads was cautious. Markets underperformed, affecting productivity, income, and confidence. These were widespread issues impacting daily life and the economy.

“Under our Rescue Mission, we moved from fragmented responses to structured reform. The Zamfara State Security Trust Fund provided a predictable framework for logistical support to security forces. We strengthened collaboration with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies through regular coordination. We implemented the Community Protection Guards in accordance with the law to enhance grassroots intelligence and early-warning capacity.

“These measures were designed to ensure that security intervention is supported by financing discipline, legal clarity, operational coordination and logistics facilitation. As an administration, we spare no expense to ensure the logistical support our security agencies on the ground receive.

“When we operationalised the Homegrown Community Protection Guards, we provided them with 60 Brand New and well-equipped Hilux operational vehicles and motorcycles to ensure adequate coverage, swift response and effective first responder services.

“The state government distributed 150 new Hilux vehicles to security forces, including the Nigeria Police, Department of Security Services, NSCDC, and others. Additionally, 20 Toyota Buffaloes were procured—10 armoured, and 10 soft-body. Over 600 specialised motorcycles have been provided for rapid response in tough terrain. These efforts have significantly contributed to recent successes.

“Beyond ground mobility, the integration of unmanned aerial systems expands reconnaissance reach. This is why we are also providing the drones. Aerial surveillance improves situational awareness, assists terrain assessment, and supports more precise coordination between command centres and field units. Real-time information strengthens decision-making and reduces operational blind spots.

“To the military commanders present today, these assets represent structured public investment and collective trust. Deployment must be intelligence-guided and strategically prioritised. Maintenance schedules must be strictly observed. Operational discipline must remain uncompromising. Long-term effectiveness depends on professional stewardship.

“To our officers and soldiers facing tough conditions, we honour your sacrifice and support your families. The government’s role goes beyond mere praise; it must provide the necessary protective and operational tools to enable you to perform effectively. Improving your safety also safeguards our communities.

Earlier, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), said that the procurement of the armoured vehicles by the Zamfara state government demonstrates the governor’s commitment. “From what I have seen, if we continue like this in the second term, Zamfara will look like Dubai.

“The protection of lives and properties rises above party lines, political affiliations and differences, and that is why I am particularly very happy to be here. That you have been a state executive who has done it for everyone, you are very distinct and very determined in what you are doing.

“It takes courage and firm conviction for subnational leadership to commit substantial resources towards strengthening public safety, and the best thing about this is that everything has been paid for. This sends a strong message to criminals.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
February 18, 2026

EUROPEAN UNION AMBASSADOR VISITS ZAMFARA AS GOV. LAWAL LAUNCHES EU PEACE PROJECT

PRESS STATEMENT

EUROPEAN UNION AMBASSADOR VISITS ZAMFARA AS GOV. LAWAL LAUNCHES EU PEACE PROJECT

Governor Dauda Lawal launched a €5.1 million European Union-funded project aimed at strengthening peace, stability, and resilience in conflict-affected communities in Zamfara.

The governor launched the Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response, and Resilience (CPCRR) project on Monday at the Rescue Hall, Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the spokesperson for the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the European Union Ambassador, Mr. Gautier Mignot, was present at the launch of the 18-month CPCRR project.

The statement added that others on the ambassador’s entourage include the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission, Dimanche Sharon, and the IOM Head of Sub Africa (NW), Jean Nahesi Katumbakana.

“The project is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with Mercy Corps and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD).

“The project builds on earlier EU-supported peace and reconciliation efforts and aims to directly support over 95,000 beneficiaries, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, host communities, women, and youth in ten local government areas (eight in Katsina and two in Zamfara).”

During his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal emphasized that the importance of the peace project extends beyond policy papers and program schedules. “It directly relates to the everyday realities of our people and reflects our shared commitment to creating a more stable, united, and strong society.

“I warmly welcome the delegation of the European Union, ably led by His Excellency, Ambassador Gautier Mignot; our partners from the International Organization for Migration; representatives of implementing organizations; our revered traditional rulers; civil society leaders; and all distinguished guests.

“Since this administration began, we’ve aimed to address insecurity clearly and comprehensively. Recognizing that lasting peace relies on addressing root causes such as exclusion, economic vulnerability, weak institutions, and eroded community trust, we’ve focused on these issues to inform our policies and partnerships.

This intervention complements the Zamfara State Government’s efforts to strengthen local peace, revitalize livelihoods for youth and women, improve coordination across ministries and agencies, and support community dialogue mechanisms. These efforts are driven by the belief that security, development, and good governance mutually reinforce one another and must progress in tandem.

“On behalf of Zamfara State’s government and people, I thank the European Union for its continued partnership. I also commend the International Organization for Migration, CDD, and Mercy Corps for their expertise and collaborative spirit. Your investment at this critical time shows confidence in our reform efforts and shared hope for lasting stability.

“Peace-building is a collective undertaking. It demands commitment from every segment of society and sustained
cooperation among partners.

“It is therefore my honour to formally flag off the Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience Project in Zamfara.”

Earlier, the European Union Ambassador, Mr. Gautier Mignot, commended Governor Lawal’s dedication and support to development partners in his effort to ensure a better Zamfara State.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
December 16, 2025

WE WILL CONTINUE SUPPORTING POLICE TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY IN ZAMFARA -GOV. LAWAL

PRESS STATEMENT

WE WILL CONTINUE SUPPORTING POLICE TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY IN ZAMFARA -GOV. LAWAL

Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to supporting police operations in Zamfara State.

The governor received the Executive Secretary of the Police Trust Fund (NPTF) on a courtesy visit at the Government House in Gusau on Monday.

A statement by the spokesperson for the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Executive Secretary and his team were in Zamfara to inspect the newly constructed special forces barracks by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund.

While receiving the team, Governor Lawal assured them of his administration’s willingness to collaborate in improving the welfare and well-being of the police.

He said, “My administration is making a conscious effort to ensure the welfare of the police is guaranteed. That is why we are currently renovating the Zamfara police headquarters.

“We are also constructing some structures at the Zamfara Mobile Command. We have achieved a lot there, and we plan to do more.

“I am pleased that the Executive Secretary mentioned the police housing estate. If you examine the condition of the police barracks, you will see that it is quite unfortunate.

“I was part of the Presidential Committee on police reform. We were chosen by the National Economic Council (NEC) to inspect facilities at the police colleges and the Police Staff College. Last week, the governors of Nasarawa, Taraba, and I traveled to Kaduna, Plateau, and Borno for this purpose.

“It is heartbreaking when you see the state of the police and still expect them to perform miracles. Honestly, I am one of those advocating for a complete overhaul of police welfare if we genuinely want them to operate effectively. It’s just a matter of time before this happens.

“I am glad the Commissioner for Housing is here with us, as we need to start work on land issues now. We will identify suitable land to be transferred to the Police Trust Fund so they can move forward with the police housing estate project. We will provide the land immediately.”

Earlier, Mohammed F. Sheidu, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, praised Governor Lawal’s cooperation and support for the police, especially regarding their welfare and infrastructure projects in Zamfara State.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
November 11, 2025