Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal says administration is gradually winning the war against armed bandits and kidnappers
The Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening collaboration with the World Bank especially in the area of developmental projects
Mr. Lawal stated this during an official visit to the World Bank office in Abuja, Nigeria over the weekend
A press statement by his spokesperson Sulaiman Bala Idris, says the visit focused on key development projects in some key areas such as education, healthcare, Agriculture and climate resilience among others
The statement adds that the visit is also expected to strengthen cooperation and partnership between the World Bank and Zamfara state
“I want to begin by thanking the World Bank for its ongoing support for our state. We have aligned our development objectives with the World Bank’s mission to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development” Gov. Lawal said
“We also recognize the security challenges that have previously impacted project implementation in Zamfara State, particularly those that have hindered the full achievement of targets due to constraints on operational activities. We are, however, making progress as the challenge is being addressed, and things are returning to normal” He added.
“We have enhanced security measures through proactive steps taken by the state to improve security through increased patrols and strategic measures that mitigate threats”
“Our administration is dedicated to ensuring the safety of lives and property by providing adequate logistics and support to security agencies to maintain peace and stability.” Dr. Lawal Maintained.
Governor Lawal further assures the World Bank officials of their safety during support, supervision, and monitoring visits, including secured accommodation, transportation, and communication protocols.
“I assure the World Bank that we have established mechanisms for ongoing security assessments to promptly address any emerging threats and ensure a secure environment for all development partners” The Gov. Assures WHO
The Zamfara again clears the air on Insecurity noting that attacks on Communities and highways including urban centres are under control with drastic reduction
“We are gradually winning the war against criminals, and life is returning to our communities. This is evident in the number of incidents reported daily and the increasing project implementation across the length and breadth of Zamfara State”
“Let me conclude by extending our invitation to the Country Director to visit Zamfara anytime soon and see the implementation of all World Bank-supported programs and our modest efforts in changing the narrative in our state.” Dr. Lawal said.
The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, commended Governor Dauda Lawal for positively advancing Zamfara State.
“I am impressed by the system you put in place. Congratulations on achieving such feats in such a very short time.” Dr. Ndiame
During the meeting, the Task Team Leader of the NG-CARES project Dr. Lire Ersado highlighted the success of the implementation model in Zamfara.
“We are not only adopting the Zamfara model in other states of Nigeria but are also extending it to other countries for implementation. I must commend the governor and the state government for their efforts,” he said.
