By Aminu Dalhatu
The First Military Governor of Zamfara State, Colonel Jibrin Bala Yakubu retired, former civilian governors of the state, traditional rulers and other prominent dignitaries have attended the commencement of activities marking the 30th anniversary of the creation of Zamfara State.
Among those who attended the ceremony in Gusau were the first civilian governor of the state, Senator Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura; former Governor Mahmuda Aliyu Shinkafi; and former Governor Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, who was represented by his former deputy, Ibrahim Wakala.
The Minister of State for Defence and former Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, was represented by his former deputy, Hassan Nasiha.
Speaking at the ceremony, the First Military Governor of the state, Colonel Jibrin Bala Yakubu retired, led for a special prayer for lasting peace, unity and prosperity in Zamfara.
Yskubu called on the people of the state, irrespective of political, ethnic or other differences, to work together and contribute to the development of Zamfara.
Also speaking, the first civilian governor of the state, Senator Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura, urged the people to always uphold the fear of Allah in their activities.
Senator Yariman Bakura expressed concern over the security challenges, economic hardship and other difficulties confronting the people and urged wealthy individuals and government at all levels to strengthen support for the less privileged.
He also encouraged Muslims to give Zakkat to those in need, while calling on the people to intensify prayers and remembrance of Allah, including reciting “Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un”, as a means of seeking divine intervention in the challenges facing the state.
The former governor also said he would engage Governor Dauda Lawal on issues concerning the welfare of the people.
In his remarks, former Governor Mahmuda Aliyu Shinkafi expressed optimism that Zamfara could overcome its challenges, citing the state’s abundant human and natural resources as potential drivers of economic development.
Former Governor Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, who was represented at the event, commended Governor Dauda Lawal for the notable infrastructural development projects across the state.
He, however, noted that, Zamfara is still faced with challenges in education, healthcare, agriculture and security, urged the people to set aside their differences and work collectively for the development of the state.
In his address, Governor Dauda Lawal described the 30th anniversary as an opportunity for reflection on the journey of the state and the sacrifices of those who contributed to its creation.
Governor Lawal said the anniversary also coincided with Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, described the occasion as a double milestone for the people of Zamfara.
He paid tribute to the founding fathers, traditional rulers, elders and other stakeholders who contributed to the struggle for the creation of Zamfara State in 1996.
The governor acknowledged the security and socio-economic challenges that have affected the state in recent years, saying that, banditry and other forms of violence had disrupted lives, education, families and livelihoods.
He said his administration had adopted progressive security agenda, including the operationalisation of the Community Protection Guards to complement conventional security agencies.
Governor Lawal said the administration had also strengthened security logistics and patrol operations while maintaining a firm position against negotiating with criminal elements.
He said the measures had contributed to improved security in some communities and the return of displaced residents to their ancestral homes.
The governor commended the military, police, Department of State Services, paramilitary agencies and other security personnel for their sacrifices in protecting the state.
He also paid tribute to families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring them of the government’s continued solidarity and support.
On development, Governor Lawal said his administration’s Rescue Agenda was being implemented across critical sectors, particularly education, healthcare, agriculture, Infrastructure and economic development.
The governor further said his administration was opening the state to responsible investments in areas including mining, mineral processing and other sectors capable of creating jobs and expanding the state’s economy.
A major highlight of the anniversary was the commencement of commercial air services to Gusau, with the first commercial flight transporting passengers from Abuja to Gusau International Airport.
The event was attended by the Chief Judge of Zamfara State, Justice Kulu Abubakar; Senator representing Zamfara Central, Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis; Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly; commissioners; heads of security agencies and government parastatals; traditional rulers; and other prominent sons and daughters of the state.
Highlights of the event included performances by Hausa traditional musicians, who entertained guests with cultural songs and music, adding colour and excitement to the 30th anniversary celebration.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
