(Press Secretary/MC)
Since its inception, the Governor’s Forum has been a platform for the exchange of ideas and strategies among Nigeria’s state leaders.
However, in the dark years of poor governance, Zamfara State’s representation during forum’s meeting had often been marred by a legacy of poverty, poor education, inadequate infrastructure and a low quality of life for its citizens.
Therefore the state might had been underrated as a”black sheep,” trailing behind in all development indicators due to poor governance.
Alhamdulillah, In a remarkable turn of events, Governor Dauda Lawal has changed this narrative. His new leadership has been a breath of fresh air, signaling a new dawn for Zamfara State.
The last Governor’s Forum meeting held at the NGF Secretariat Lake Chad crescent Abuja, exemplified this change, where Governor Lawal was warmly received by his colleagues as soon as he alighted from his vehicle and headed to the conference room upstairs. I personally watched and studied the scene as i quickly recalled a popular quote by Neil Armstrong the first man who stepped onto the moon in July 20, 1969. He said and I quote: “This one small step for man, a giant leap for Mankind”
I reserve the analysis till another day on the significance of the above statement which represents the metaphor of issues around governance in Zamfara then and now.
Meanwhile, the bottom line of my eye witness account story is to state that i really became immersed with gratitude to God for a new image of our dear Zamfara seen with new eyes and perspectives evidently observed in the interaction of our Governor with the Governors of other states.This has been the trend in the last few months wherever we attend a public function with the our leader. A sort of ‘New Governor! New image! for Zamfara.
In deed, the recent scenario was reminiscent of the proverb, “A good tree bears good fruit,” as the respect and admiration shown to him reflected the positive changes under his administration.
As his aides, we observed with pride the growing popularity of Governor Lawal, not just among the people of Zamfara but also within the broader Nigerian political landscape. The transformation in Zamfara under his leadership is nothing short of remarkable, as evidenced by the feedback from media personnel and Governors aid from other states with whom we hanged around and awaited the outcome of the meeting by the Nigerian Governors which lasted for several hours.
Recall that, when Governor Lawal assumed office, he inherited a state with meager resources, a consequence of the previous administration’s irresponsibility.
It is often said, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going,” and Governor Lawal has exemplified this adage. Despite the challenges, he has spearheaded numerous developmental projects. These include the renovation and equipping of hospitals, upgrading primary health centers to general hospitals, and the reconstruction of dilapidated schools. He has prioritized education, providing furniture and learning materials to schools and giving tertiary institutions a much-needed facelift.
Governor Lawal’s administration is driven by a determination to create a socio-economic environment conducive to growth and development, ensuring that the citizens of Zamfara have access to basic amenities.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. In the NG-CARES and other projects guided by 6 smart Agenda, Governor Lawal’s careful implementation has been lauded, earning him an award of excellence for innovative projects presented by Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima during a colourful event at the presidential villa a couple of weeks ago.
Governor Dauda Lawal has truly “turned the tide” for Zamfara State, elevating it from the depths of despair to a beacon of hope.
His achievements in just one year represent his realistic vision and dedication to the growth and development of Zamfara State.
As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” and Governor Lawal has made giant strides in the journey towards a prosperous Zamfara.
We appeal to the people of Zamfara State to continue supporting this transformative leadership, as Governor Dauda Lawal is poised to deliver even greater dividends of democracy. “The reward for good work is more work,” said the wise men. We are therefore confident that under his guidance, Zamfara will continue to flourish.
In conclusion, Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership has not only lifted the image and dignity of Zamfara State but has also set a new standard for governance.
May his efforts be rewarded, as the Qur’an says, “Indeed, Allah is with those who fear Him and those who are doers of good” (Quran 16:128). We thank Almighty Allah for this blessing and look forward to more achievements in the years to come.
by
-Sani Ahmed Sambo
Press Secretary/MC
