Zamfara: Gov. Lawal presents staff of office, vehicles to emirs, tasks them on security

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, on Saturday presented staff of office and official vehicles to the 19 Emirs in the state as part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and grassroots administration.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the presentation formed part of activities marking the 30th  anniversary of the creation of Zamfara State.

Mr Lawal, while speaking at the event, said it was a significant milestone in the history and governance of the state.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of traditional institutions as partners in promoting peace, stability and development of the state.

He noted the important role of traditional institutions in areas of development since the creation of Zamfara in 1996 to date.

According to him, the traditional institutions had continued to play vital roles in maintaining social order, preserving cultural values and fostering harmonious relationships among communities.

Mr Lawal urged the emirs to discharge their responsibilities with fairness, wisdom, integrity and compassion.

He tasked the traditional rulers to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by providing credible information, mobilising community support and discouraging the protection or concealment of criminal elements, irrespective of their identities or affiliations.

Mr Lawal said that insecurity remained a major challenge confronting the state, with its consequences reflected in disrupted farming activities, displacement of communities, loss of livelihoods and hardship among families.

He said restoring lasting peace required sustained government efforts, effective security operations and the cooperation and support from communities.

Mr Lawal emphasised his administration’s effort to restore agricultural activities, describing farming as a major source of livelihood and a component of food security, employment and household income in the state.

He urged the emirs to protect access to farmlands and encourage cooperation among residents to enable farmers to return to their farms and for rural markets to resume normal activities.

Mr Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces across the state.

According to him, the initiative would strengthen traditional institutions and improve the working environment of traditional rulers.

Mr Lawal said that the vehicles included 2025 and 2026 models of Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, GAC GS8 vehicles and EV Antics.

He urged the traditional rulers to ensure proper maintenance and responsible use of the vehicles strictly for official assignments.

He assured that the state government would continue to work with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to ensure that residents could live, farm, trade and pursue their livelihoods without fear.

Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar lll was among top dignitaries that attended the event marking the end of activities for the 30th anniversary of the state.

NAN