In a significant political development, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has announced plans to conduct local government elections following recent amendments to the state’s electoral law. This announcement was made during a meeting of the state’s Executive Council, where the Governor stressed the critical importance of holding democratic elections at the local level. His comments came in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that underscored the need to restore democratic governance in local councils. The governor also used this meeting to formally inaugurate Bala Aliyu Gusau as the Chairman of the Zamfara State Independent Electoral Commission, a move seen as a crucial step in preparing for the upcoming electoral process.
The tenure of the current leadership in the local government, which consists of 14 sole administrators, is set to conclude on October 23, 2024, creating an urgent need for new elections. Governor Lawal highlighted the legal necessity for the elections, stating, “Based on the Supreme Court’s recent judgment, we need to conduct elections in our local government councils.” He has already signed amendments to the Zamfara State Electoral Law, which facilitate these elections, and has tasked the State Independent Elections Commission with announcing an election timetable promptly. Lawal emphasized that the elections would help establish democratically elected local government councils across Zamfara State.
In addition to discussing the local elections, Governor Lawal informed the Executive Council about his recent attendance at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He described this experience as highly valuable, expressing optimism about its potential positive impact on the administration’s ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of citizens in Zamfara. The governor’s participation at the UNGA aligns with his broader strategy to engage with global platforms to attract resources and support for various programs within the state.
Reinforcing his administration’s commitment to social development, Lawal announced plans for the timely inauguration of the Zamfara State Investment Promotion Agency Board, calling on the Secretary to the State Government and the Deputy Governor to facilitate this process. This agency is expected to play a critical role in promoting investment opportunities within the state, thereby contributing to economic growth and stability. Furthermore, the governor highlighted the state’s readiness to begin the cash transfer component of NG-Cares, an initiative aimed at assisting vulnerable populations in Zamfara.
The NG-Cares program is expected to significantly uplift the most disadvantaged citizens, including unemployed youths, women, and other vulnerable groups. Governor Lawal revealed that around N4.9 billion would be allocated to this project, benefiting approximately 5,000 vulnerable households, creating Labour Intensive Public Workfare (LIPW) positions for 6,000 unemployed youths and women, and providing Livelihood Support Grants (LG) for another 8,000 economically active individuals. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that economic support reaches those who need it the most, thereby fostering an inclusive economic environment.
In closing the executive meeting, Governor Lawal emphasized the importance of fairness and justice in the nomination processes for all constituencies, underlining his administration’s commitment to representing the interests of all citizens. This insistence on equitable governance resonates deeply with the governor’s broader vision of fostering democratic values and enhancing the welfare of the people in Zamfara State. As preparations for local government elections and various socio-economic initiatives unfold, the governor’s leadership appears poised to make significant strides in addressing the challenges faced by the state.
