Governor Dauda Lawal has informed the World Bank that the government is making steady progress in the fight against banditry in Zamfara State.
He made this statement during an official visit to the World Bank office in Abuja.
According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, their meeting centered on development projects in education, health, climate resilience, and agriculture.
The governor emphasized that the visit would strengthen cooperation and partnership between the Zamfara state government and the World Bank.
“I want to start 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.”
He noted that the state government has enhanced security measures by increasing patrols and implementing strategic actions to mitigate threats.
Governor Lawal assured World Bank staff of their safety during support, supervision, and monitoring visits, including secure accommodations, transportation, and communication protocols.
Dr. Dauda Lawal informed the World Bank that the state government has established mechanisms for ongoing security assessments to quickly address any emerging threats and ensure a safe environment for all development partners.
According to the Governor, attacks by bandits on highways, villages, and cities are now under control.
He maintained that the government is gradually winning the fight against criminals and that life is returning to affected communities.
In remarks during the meeting, World Bank Country Director in Nigeria, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, praised Governor Lawal for positively advancing Zamfara State.
“I am impressed by the system you have put in place. Congratulations on achieving such success in such a short time.”
During the meeting, the task team leader of the NG-CARES project 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. I commend the governor and the state government for their efforts,” she said.
Banditry in Zamfara State has been a significant security concern for over a decade. The state has witnessed numerous attacks, kidnappings, and other violent activities perpetrated by bandits.
This insecurity, primarily characterized by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, has created a humanitarian crisis in the region, with devastating consequences for the economy, social cohesion, and overall quality of life.
In April 2024, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes killed scores of terrorists in the state. The terrorists were eliminated at the camps of kingpins Abdullahi Nasanda in Zurmi Local Government Area and Mallam Tukur in Gusau Local Government Area.
In May this year, the Zamfara State House of Assembly called on the state government to liaise with the federal government and other relevant authorities to station a permanent military base in the state, particularly in Tsafe local government, to address the current security challenges.
Aminu Dalhatu
