Tag: Dauda Lawal

Governor Dauda Lawal has signed into law, ₦871.3 billion, 2026 appropriation, following approval of the Bill by the Zamfara legislature.

Governor Lawal signed the 2026 bill on Thursday, shortly after it was approved by the State House of Assembly.

On December 4, the governor presented a proposed budget of ₦861.3 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to the Zamfara house of assembly for approval.

Earlier, the Zamfara House of Assembly had passed the 2026 appropriation bill into law following the presentation of a report by the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

The committee had presented the report of the bill with a total estimate of ₦871.337 billion for the 2026 fiscal year before the house plenary.

Presenting the committee’s report, its  Chairman, Rilwanu Na-Gambo, explained that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state appeared before the committee and defended their proposals.

Na-Gambo noted that there was a significant improvement in the revenue profile of most MDAs.

Read Also: Lawal signs ₦871.3bn 2026 appropriation

He said the committee recommended an additional N8 billion for capital expenditure in the Ministry of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, and N2 billion for recurrent expenditure for the Zamfara house of assembly.

While passing the bill, the Speaker, Bilyaminu Isma’il said that the legislators considered the strategic priorities of Lawal’s administration, including security, agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure.

The speaker said the budget was designed to reflect the needs and aspirations of the people at the local government level and across other sectors, while ensuring balanced budgeting with a strong focus on equity and inclusion.

The Deputy Governor, Mani Malam Mumini and the Speaker of the Zamfara House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Isma’il were among top government officials present when Gov. Lawal signed the bill into law.

Governor Dauda Lawal donated N160 million to the security agencies in the state as part of his appreciation to their performance as enforcement agencies in safeguarding the lives of the people of the state.

The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Abubakar Nakwada made the donation at the end-of the-year tour to honour security and law enforcement agencies in recognition of their efforts of safeguarding the people.

The governor said the visit, the first of its kind in the state, served as a strategic engagement aimed at recognising the dedication, sacrifices and resilience of the security personnel in protecting the lives and property of the citizens.

According to him, the visit also aims to bolster the morale of the personnel and strengthen collaboration between the state government and federal security agencies in the fight against all forms of criminalities.

The governor conveyed the profound gratitude of the government and people of Zamfara to the frontline men and women battling insecurity across the state.

He further solicited for more concerted efforts towards addressing the state’s security challenges, reassuring that the state government would continue to provide all the support they required to perform their duties effectively.

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Lawal also extended heartfelt condolences to the agencies, praying for the eternal rest of the officers who might have paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

“To further demonstrate the state government’s appreciation, we distributed N160 million across the agencies as end-of-year solidarity package.

“The kind gesture is to enable them celebrate the yuletide festivities with ease,” the governor said.

The tour covered 1 Bridge Command of the Nigerian Army, 207 Air Force Quick Response Group, Garrison Command, State Police Command, Nigerian Customs Service, Department of State Security, Police Mobile (MP) 42.

Other agencies visited by the governor included Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), and the State Community Protection Guards (CPG). 

Governor Dauda Lawal has presided over 58 sessions of the Zamfara State Executive Council meetings since taking office in 2023.

On Monday, the governor presided over the 58th session of the State Executive Council at the council chamber in Government House, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal has chaired 23 sessions of the Executive Council in 2025. 

He also noted that, besides discussing important development issues, each meeting resulted in approval of projects that benefit the people of Zamfara.

The statement read in parts, “For the first time in Zamfara State’s history, the government under Governor Dauda Lawal has reached a milestone by holding 58 Executive Council meetings, the highest decision-making body in the state. 

Read Also: Governor Lawal launches €5.1 million European Union peace project 

“The Executive Council’s discussions are central to approving projects, making decisions, and adopting policies, including the 10th-year State Development Plan.

“Since his swearing-in in May 2023, Governor Lawal has actively led the council, chairing 13 sessions in 2023 and 22 councils in 2024.

“This year alone, Governor Lawal has presided over 23 council sessions, leading to numerous approvals that have positively impacted sectors like education, health, infrastructure, the economy, and security in Zamfara State.

“Overall, Governor Lawal has chaired 58 Executive Council sessions.

“Approved legacy projects by the Zamfara Executive Council are either completed or underway. 

“Notable projects include the nearly finished Cargo International Airport and the reconstruction and equipment installation in all general hospitals across the 14 local government areas.

“More projects include building, renovating, and equipping over 500 schools across the state, and the construction of township roads in the capital and other local government areas.

“These council meetings have yielded positive community benefits, reflecting visible development all over Zamfara.

“With the 58th session of the council held today, Governor Lawal has distinguished himself among his peers as the governor with the most Executive Council meetings in the last two and a half years.”

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. 

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“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.  

Governor Dauda Lawal described the State Development Plan (2025 to 2034) as a long-term, evidence-based roadmap that reflects the people’s aspirations and collective goal to transform the State.

The governor launched the 10-year development plan at the JB Yakubu Secretariat in Gusau on Friday.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the state government has engaged KPMG advisory as the lead consultant to develop the plan. 

The statement further noted that KPMG collaborated closely with Zamfara Executive Council members and all stakeholders, including traditional rulers and religious leaders, over a period of eight months to develop the 10-year development plan. 

At the unveiling, Governor Lawal stressed that the development Plan is the first comprehensive long-term plan in the State’s recent history. 

He said, “The development plan is built on robust data, wide stakeholder engagement, and alignment with national and global development frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nigeria’s National Development Plan 2050, and the African Union Agenda 2063. 

“It sets clear sectoral priorities, measurable outcomes, and a monitoring and evaluation framework that ensures transparency at every stage of implementation. 

“In this State Development Plan, we envision Zamfara becoming a benchmark for transformative economic growth– not merely for Nigeria, but the continent of Africa. 

“We will use resources, innovation, and governance to promote inclusive growth, stability, and opportunity. The Plan is built on six pillars: Economy; Infrastructure; Social Welfare; Human Capital; Governance; and Environmental Sustainability.  

“Zamfara’s strength in agriculture and natural resources will be maximized through partnerships like the MoFI agreement and African Development Bank funding. This aims to boost mechanized farming, agro-processing, and value chains, creating jobs, improving food security, opening markets, and reducing poverty-driven insecurity.”

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Governor Lawal emphasized that Zamfara stands on a favorable pedestal. “With the State Development Plan, we are not merely dreaming- we are preparing to deliver. We are redefining the fate of our state. We are rekindling hope for the young, dignity for the vulnerable, opportunity for the enterprising, and stability for all.

“Let the launch of the Zamfara State Development Plan 2025-2034 mark not a mere political ambition, but a turning point in the history of our state. Let it be said that when Zamfara was at its lowest, we rose not with rhetoric, but with resolve. Not with empty promises, but with purposeful plans. Not with despair, but with vision.

“Distingushed ladies and gentlemen, my dear people of Zamfara State, With firm faith in Almighty Allah, confidence in the resilience of our people, and a firm commitment to the principles we have outlined today, In the name of Allah the Most Merciful, it is my honour responsibility and privilege, to launch the Zamfara State Development Plan 2025- 2034 for our today and for our tomorrow.”

Earlier, remarks were made by the Secretary to the State Government, Mallam Abubakar Nakwada; the Chief of Staff, Mukhtar Lugga; and the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam.  

On November 28, 2025, a group called Human Rights Watchdog in Africa (HRWA) issued a press statement, signed by its Executive Director, Samson Adamu, calling on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara after accusing Governor Dauda Lawal of “pardoning and releasing convicted bandits.”

— CLAIM —

The HRWA’s statement, which was used by some sections of the media, claimed that Governor Dauda Lawal authorised the release of 69 convicted bandits in September through what it described as a “secret state pardon,” reportedly processed through the Zamfara State Zakat and Endowment Board, under a programme tagged “Religious Amnesty.”

The group further urged President Tinubu to invoke emergency powers under the Nigerian Constitution to suspend Lawal, overhaul the state’s security apparatus, and launch a federal probe into the alleged pardons.

“Strip away his authority before more blood is spilt. HRWA stands with the voiceless victims of Zamfara; we will not rest until accountability prevails,” Adamu said.

— VERIFICATION —

In order to verify this claim, this newspaper tried to obtain the original statement issued and signed by the Human Rights Watchdog in Africa, which was the source of the story published by some online platforms. However, this newspaper couldn’t get the original statement issued by the group.

Our correspondents tried to reach out to Samson Adamu, the so-called executive director of the group, who signed the statement according to the published stories. Checks with journalists in Zamfara, Kaduna and Abuja, where the purported statement was allegedly released, couldn’t yield any tangible result, as no journalist could confirm receiving any statement by the said group or from Samson Adamu.

Our reporters deployed open search tools to see whether the group has a registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) or any office, website, contact, or physical address. The results from the online searches were all negative.

This newspaper’s fact-check team has tried checking the identity of Samson Adamu through online tools. Like the group he purportedly represents, there was no name matching his online before November 28, 2025. He has no digital footprint or social media identity, nor any virtual or physical address or phone number.

The Human Rights Watchdog in Africa, it was found, first appeared in late November 2025, through news coverage in Nigeria for urging President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State. Before this time, there was no mention of the organisation online or anywhere.

On the validity of the group’s claim, a team of fact-checkers deployed by this newspaper uncovered that the Zamfara State Zakkat and Endowment Board had facilitated the settlement of DEBTS and subsequent release of 909 inmates between 2024 and 2025.

This was revealed by the Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji Habib Muhammad Balarabe, during the 2025 End-of-Year Activities held at the Board’s premises, Bypass, Gusau, recently.

Mr Balarabe said the board secured the freedom of 473 inmates in 2024 and this year released ₦67.2 million for the settlement of DEBTS owed by 436 inmates, bringing the total beneficiaries to 909 within two years.

The board also empowers 200 women small-scale business owners, who received ₦50,000 each, to strengthen their enterprises. Another set of 100 women were presented with starter packs, completing a three-week poultry production training to enable them to start their own businesses.

Checks with the officials of the Zakkat board have further revealed that their scope of humanitarian activities, which includes paying up the debts of persons convicted of civil cases, and have proven to be of worthy character while in prison, DIDN’T include bandits, who are convicted of criminal activities.

“We don’t have such a mandate. And no convicted bandit was pardoned or released. It is laughable for someone to say the Governor of Zamfara, who, time without number, declared publicly that he won’t negotiate with bandits, would turn back to release them from prison after their conviction. This is a huge joke,” the official, who was not authorised to speak to the press, said on Tuesday.

Further checks have shown that the Zakkat board paid the debts of the convicted debtors after a thorough process in collaboration with the officials of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS).

This newspaper has further confirmed that in the last two years, Governor Dauda Lawal has been consistent in insisting that his administration won’t negotiate with bandits.   

On October 29, 2025, while serving as a guest lecturer to participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) at the National Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, Governor Lawal warned against the ongoing federal government peace deal with bandits.

The governor further stressed that Zamfara State strongly frowns on the ongoing, unregulated peace efforts being undertaken in parts of the North-West with violent non-state actors.

“Dialogue can aid conflict management, but true peace requires disarmament, and reconciliation without control equates to surrender. Allowing armed groups to keep their weapons while setting peace terms simply delays violence and compromises state sovereignty.”

“At this crucial time, peace efforts should be strong, coordinated, state-led, and backed by legitimate authority. The State must show it has both the capacity and the will to enforce peace. Sustainable peace arises when armed actors acknowledge the rule of law and the Government’s commitment to protect its citizens.”

Lastly, our reporters reached out to Governor Lawal’s spokesperson, Suleman Bala Idris, to establish whether his principal had actually pardoned and released convicted bandits. Mr Idris said there was no time Governor Lawal pardoned or released any bandit.

He said, “The story is a juvenile work of fiction. It is a figment of the imagination of some failed politicians in Abuja whose political career is in jeopardy because of their links with bandits. As that haunts them, they would continue to catch straws, including manufacturing puerile lies, to tarnish the Rescue Mission revolution being undertaken by Governor Dauda Lawal in Zamfara state. It is a desperate attempt to distract Governor Lawal, but that has also failed, as it did before.”

— VERDICT —

After a thorough investigation by our fact-check directorate, it has been established beyond doubt that the Human Rights Watchdog in Africa (HRWA) and its executive director are fictitious. The claim that Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State had pardoned and released convicted bandits is found to be FALSE.

The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Zamfara State Chapter, has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for the timely commencement of allowance payments to fresh Zamfara Clinical Veterinary Students.

This was revealed by Dr Kaka’u Dalla Dalla, Publicity Secretary, NVMA Zamfara State Chapter, in a statement on Tuesday. 

The statement said, “This thoughtful intervention demonstrates the Governor’s unwavering commitment to educational development, human capacity building, and the advancement of the veterinary profession in the state.”

The doctors said by supporting our young clinical trainees, the administration has not only eased their academic journey but also reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening veterinary public health and animal welfare in Zamfara.

Read Also: Group decries shortage of veterinary doctors in Oyo

“The NVMA Zamfara State Chapter expresses profound appreciation for this gesture and assures the Government of its continued partnership in promoting quality animal health services, food safety, and improved livelihoods for the people of Zamfara State.

“We encourage the beneficiaries to remain dedicated, disciplined, and focused as they prepare to serve the state and the nation.”

 Zamfara schools to remain open as gov’t adopts new security measures  

The Zamfara State Government says it is not considering closing schools despite rising insecurity and a wave of student abductions across parts of the country.

Instead, the state government has introduced new security measures to protect learning centres and ensure pupils continue classes without fear of attacks.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, disclosed this while addressing journalists at an event organised by the Federated Association of Zamfara State Students in Gusau, the state capital.

Madawaki’s assurance comes amid the recent abduction of 25 students of Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, and the attack on Saint Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State that saw about 315 students and staff abducted.

These attacks have led some northern states to announce mass school closures, but Zamfara says it will not follow suit. Instead, authorities are strengthening security in and around schools to deter bandit attacks. 

“We have already done what we are supposed to do, and when you talk about security, you do not disclose your actions to the media. But we have taken steps to safeguard the interests of our students. The security of the schools and children is well taken care of.

“We are in contact with all the security agencies, and they are giving us the necessary support to ensure our schools operate without hindrance. We believe nothing will happen, and our education will continue to flourish until the end of the academic term,” Madawaki said.

Madawaki explained that states embarking on mass closures largely operate boarding schools, whereas Zamfara currently runs mainly day schools due to insecurity.

“As of now, most of the states that have closed their schools operate boarding systems where students stay in hostels. Bandits often strike at night when people are asleep. Here, we are yet to resume our boarding system. Our schools run during the day,” he said.

He noted that schools in areas with persistent insecurity remain closed until conditions improve.

“Where we feel there is insecurity, the schools have already been closed. Where there is relative peace, we have allowed students to continue since the term is almost ending. If there is a need to extend holidays, we shall do so,” he said.

The commissioner added that some higher institutions, including the state university, polytechnic and college of education, are already on holiday.

“They are due to resume in December, but because they keep boarding students, we will extend their holidays until January to assess the situation before they return.”

The Zamfara State Government has launched key initiatives to improve the lives of children and vulnerable populations in Zamfara state.

The initiatives include a 5-year Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) on child nutrition (2025-2030) strategy, and a strategy for implementing the state’s alternative childcare guidelines.

These efforts aim to enhance child nutrition and ensure effective implementation of the standardized care and protection for children across Zamfara state.

The Deputy Governor, Mani Malam Mummuni, on behalf of Governor Dauda Lawal unveiled the strategies in Gusau on Tuesday, alongside UNICEF country representative, Mrs Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef who led her team on a courtesy visit to the Governor.

The strategic documents were developed with UNICEF’s support, demonstrating the commitment of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration to exploring partnerships toward improving the welfare of children and vulnerable populations in Zamfara state.

While unveiling the documents, the Deputy Governor appreciated UNICEF for being a good partner, reassuring the state government’s commitment to providing the enabling environment and institutional support required to ensure meaningful impacts of all joint programmes.

“We really value UNICEF’s long-standing partnership and commitment to improving the lives of children and vulnerable populations across our state.

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“Your support has continued to complement our administration’s rescue and development agenda, especially in addressing the needs of displaced children, increasing school enrollment, expanding immunization coverage, and improving service delivery in rural areas,” the Deputy Governor said.

In additional remarks, the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government (SSG), Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada advocated for deeper collaboration with UNICEF on three priority areas to accelerate outcomes for children and women across Zamfara state.

“First, is the construction of child-friendly model classrooms built to UNICEF’s standard, similar to successful models in countries like Bangladesh.

“Secondly, we seek partnership in establishing child-friendly healthcare facilities in each of the three senatorial districts in the state.

“Thirdly, we look forward to strengthening evidence-based data generation to improve planning, budgeting and geographical investments in children and women.

“One key proposal is the conduct of a state general households survey in the 2026 fiscal year, to generate reliable data that will directly guide public-sector responses and resource allocation,” the SSG highlighted.

Earlier, UNICEF’s country representative, Mrs Wafaa Saeed commended Governor Lawal’s administration for the prompt payment of N500 million counter funding to the nutrition program and for its commitment to providing human resources in the health and education sectors, adding that the fund will continue to support the efforts of the state government.

“We are here to listen to your priorities and support your efforts.

“In Zamfara, the leadership has always paid attention to get the human resources for health and education.

“I really want to commend your leadership commitment. This is really great,” she applauded.

Additionally, the Zamfara State Government commissioned Sexual Assault Refferal Centre in King Fahad General Hospital Gusau.

The centre named after the state’s First Lady, Her Excellency Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal will provide medical, psycho-social, legal and livelihoods support to the survivors of sexual assault.

The commissioning of the centre demonstrates the commitment of Governor Lawal’s administration to enhance its response against gender-based violence and support survivors in accessing essential services.

Suleman Ahmad Tudu

Senior Special Assistant (Media)

Office of the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government.

Governor Dauda Lawal has been selected to accompany President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the 20th Heads of State and Government Summit of the Group of 20 (G20) in South Africa.

The summit, scheduled for November 22nd and 23rd, will include six Nigerian Governors as part of the President’s delegation.

A statement by the Zamfara Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that all G20 member states will be represented at the summit.

The statement also noted that the gathering will feature 16 guest countries and six countries representing regional economic communities from Africa, the Caribbean, and East Asia.

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The statement said: “Governor Dauda Lawal has been selected as a member of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s delegation for the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Other governors in the delegation include those from Osun State, Plateau State, Gombe State, Katsina State, Niger State, Enugu State, and Nasarawa State.

“The leaders’ summit is the culmination of the G20 process, reflecting all the work done throughout the year through Ministerial Meetings, Working Groups, and Engagement Groups.

“Furthermore, the G20 meeting in South Africa will have three sessions during the two-day summit.

“Discussions will cover a wide range of issues, including trade, development finance, the global debt challenge, climate change, food systems, the just transition, critical minerals, decent work, and artificial intelligence contributions.”