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Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal receives commendations for transformation efforts
via Punch Nigeria8 min read
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has received widespread commendation from notable Nigerians and international organizations for the transformations recorded across critical sectors in the state over the past three years. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa retd., praised Governor Lawal on February 18, 2026, for procuring sophisticated military hardware, including 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers and an endurance surveillance drone, to combat banditry, stating that Zamfara could resemble Dubai with continued efforts. On October 29, 2025, Joseph Obule Odama, Commandant of the National Institute for Security Studies, lauded Governor Lawal for transforming Zamfara from a state of negativity to positivity despite significant challenges. On April 10, 2026, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed led a UN team to Zamfara, expressing the organization's willingness to partner with the state, highlighting its potential in mining and markets, and the leadership's commitment. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended Governor Lawal on April 21, 2026, for his "uncommon" support for military operations. The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria BON awarded Governor Lawal the Infrastructure Governor of the Year on April 19, 2026, for his administration's urban renewal projects, including the construction of a modern International Airport and the refurbishment of over 800 schools. On December 13, 2025, Zamfara State was recognized as the best-perform
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