Zamfara State has taken a significant step toward addressing housing shortages and improving living conditions by providing 50 hectares of land free of charge for the Federal Government’s housing initiatives. This act of cooperation was underscored during a recent meeting involving Dr. Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, and Ahmed Dangiwa, the Federal Minister of Housing and Urban Development. Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, welcomed the collaboration between the state and federal authorities, highlighting its importance in tackling the pressing challenges that Zamfara faces, including issues related to security and infrastructure.
Governor Lawal expressed his gratitude toward Minister Dangiwa for the supportive environment and quick arrangements for their discussions. During the meeting, Lawal placed emphasis on the significant challenges confronting Zamfara, particularly the state’s dismal internal revenue generation figures, which stood at a mere N90 million when he took office. He informed the minister of the government’s commitment to confronting pressing concerns such as insecurity, healthcare, and education which ultimately affect the welfare of residents. Lawal stressed the urgency of these issues and called on the federal ministry to prioritize Zamfara in future initiatives, particularly in relation to the deteriorating facilities near the Federal University in Gusau.
In his address, Dangiwa expressed empathy for the recent tragedies caused by banditry in Zamfara, conveying his solidarity during this difficult time. He acknowledged the loss experienced by some communities and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to collaborating with Zamfara State for development. Dangiwa also spotlighted the generous donation of land for housing projects and committed to making the partnership between the federal and state governments productive. His remarks set a positive tone for the implementation of housing projects, highlighting plans to construct 500 housing units within the next year aimed at significantly improving living conditions for the residents of Zamfara.
Emphasizing the importance of addressing infrastructure needs, Lawal reiterated the urgency of implementing these housing initiatives. He pointed out recent advancements in agricultural productivity and a noted reduction in insecurity, suggesting that the state is moving in a positive direction. The governor’s optimism for future collaborations with the federal ministry reflects the mutual recognition of the need to support and uplift the community through effective partnerships.
The collaboration between the Zamfara State government and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development signifies a proactive approach to alleviate some of the critical issues facing the state. By committing land resources and fostering discussions focused on pressing needs, both parties are laying the groundwork for a more secure and well-developed environment for Zamfara residents. The meeting culminated in a shared vision for tackling the intertwined issues of housing, security, and economic growth, with particular attention to vulnerable communities adversely affected by banditry and infrastructural deficits.
In conclusion, the commitment to improve housing and infrastructure in Zamfara State highlights an essential partnership driven by a shared purpose of development and community welfare. With the provision of land and the pledge to construct 500 housing units, both Governor Lawal and Minister Dangiwa have demonstrated a concerted effort to uplift the living standards of Zamfara’s residents. Moving forward, the hope is that such collaborations will not only address immediate challenges but also pave the way for sustainable development and long-term stability in the region.
