Zamfara @ 30: Gov Lawal commissions infrastructure projects, declares his rescue mission a success

Governor Dauda Lawal has declared that his administration’s rescue mission is transforming Zamfara State across critical sectors. On Thursday, the governor began a series of events and project commissioning to mark Zamfara State’s 30th Anniversary.

The 30th Anniversary and commissioning were attended by the Pioneer Military Administrator of Zamfara State, Colonel Jibril Bala Yakubu (rtd), former governors Ahmed Sani Yarima and Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi, and other dignitaries.

During his speech at the National Independence Day parade and Zamfara’s 30th Anniversary at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, Governor Lawal said Zamfara has moved from despair to an era of clear execution, transparency, and sustainable development.

He said, “Today, we join Nigerians in celebrating Independence Day and mark three decades since Zamfara State was created on October 1, 1996. Alhamdulillah for Allah’s grace, mercy, and protection that have guided us through trials and triumphs, uniting us in a shared destiny.

“As we watched our gallant security forces, paramilitary agencies, vibrant students and youth march in unity on this parade ground, we were reminded of the resilience that defines the Nigerian spirit and, most specifically, the strength of character of our people.

“We must reflect intentionally on the profound sacrifices of our founding fathers, who fought tirelessly to break the chains of colonial rule and give birth to a free, sovereign nation. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude for protecting this country’s unity, peace, and territorial integrity.

“As we look forward to the next decade, we must understand that true independence demands collective responsibility. Government alone can’t do this. I call on traditional rulers, religious scholars, civil servants, traders, and our resilient youth to unite. We must set aside divisions—ethnic, political, sectarian—and protect the peace we fought for.”

On Friday, Governor Lawal commissioned phase III of the renovated and modernised J B Yakubu Secretariat in Gusau as part of his effort to rebuild government institutions and create a modern, efficient, technology-enabled, results-oriented Public Service for Zamfara State.

The J B Yakubu Secretariat houses critical Ministries, Departments, and Agencies whose responsibilities span virtually every aspect of governance and service delivery.

Governor Lawal said modernising the Secretariat will deepen coordination among MDAs, strengthen communication, promote institutional synergy, and support faster, more effective implementation of government decisions.

“Today’s occasion is significant as we welcome His Excellency, Colonel Jibril Bala Yakubu (rtd), Zamfara’s pioneer Military Administrator, after whom this Secretariat is named. As Zamfara marks thirty years since its creation, it’s fitting that a leader from our foundation is here to witness this milestone.”

Earlier, the pioneer Military Administrator of Zamfara State, Colonel J B Yakubu (rtd) lauded Governor Lawal’s giant strides, particularly in infrastructure, education, and health.

On the same Friday, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, commissioned the reconstructed and remodelled Jumu’at Mosque (Yardole) and its attached shopping complex.

The mosque, named after Malam Sambo Dan Ashafa, a renowned Islamic scholar and companion of the great (MUJADDADI) and leader of the 1st Sokoto Jihad, Sheikh Uthman Ibn Fodiyo, will also serve as an Islamic and research learning centre.