Zamfara Circle Urges President Tinubu to Act Over Worsening Insecurity.

The Zamfara Circle Community Initiative has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent and decisive action to address the worsening security situation in Zamfara State.

At a world press conference held in Gusau on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Initiative, Dr. Aminu Lawal, expressed deep concern over the rising wave of armed banditry, mass abductions, killings, and destruction of communities across the state.

Dr. Lawal stated that Zamfara is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that demands both national and international attention. 

He urged the Federal Government to accord the state the same priority given to other conflict-affected areas like Benue, Plateau, and Borno states.

"The Circle wants to state unequivocally that, President Bola Tinubu, by his action or inaction, has abandoned the good people of Zamfara state despite the contribution the state gave him during the 2023 general elections as one of the only 2 states won by his party in the North-western region with over 298,000 votes"

"The people of Zamfara are beginning to question whether they have become third-class citizens in their own country. It seems the government has jettisoned one of its most fundamental responsibilities  the protection of the lives and property of its citizens"

Key demands by the Zamfara Circle Community Initiative outlined was for Federal government to show genuine commitment to treat Zamfara’s security challenge with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.

"Launch a special military operation: President Tinubu should direct the nation’s top military chiefs to initiate a well-coordinated offensive against bandit groups operating in the state"

"Develop a comprehensive security strategy: There is a need for a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, and victims of violence across the North-West"

The Chairman of the Initiative also emphasized the nedd for the Federal government to Deploy more security personnel to reclaim ungoverned spaces currently under the control of criminal groups.

"Support internally displaced persons (IDPs): The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) should immediately provide food, shelter, and healthcare for thousands of displaced citizens"

Dr. Aminu Lawal condemned the recent massacre in Banga Ward of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, where 35 abductees were killed by bandits after a four-month captivity and failed ransom negotiations. 

He noted that 53 residents, including women and children, were initially kidnapped and that 18 survivors released were found severely malnourished and traumatized — yet received no support from government authorities.

The Initiative also expressed sympathy to victims of recent attacks in Waramu (Anka LGA), Chediya (Tsafe LGA), and Fegin Mahe (Gusau LGA), among others, where entire communities have been razed or displaced.

The Cycle further called on International Organizations such as African Union (AU), ECOWAS, the European Union (EU), and the United Nations (UN) to intervene in the crisis, noting that Zamfara has been in turmoil for over 15 years.

“We ask: when will you come to the aid of the people of Zamfara? This once peaceful state has become a tragic epicenter of killings, poverty, and hopelessness,” Dr. Lawal said.

While Presenting data compiled by the Zamfara Circle Security Appraisal Committee (ZC-SAC), Dr. Lawal revealed that from January 2024 to July 2025, at least 455 communities were attacked, 3,216 people kidnapped, and over 230 killed, with hundreds of millions paid as ransom.

"Despite this, he criticized the Governor’s repeated claims of 70% success in tackling insecurity, describing them as exaggerated and misleading"

Dr. Aminu Lawal announced that, the Initiative is planning a Zamfara Security Summit, to bring together stakeholders from all sectors to chart a sustainable path to peace.

He stressed that, Zamfara State should not be treated in isolation and urged President Tinubu to act now.

CCS MUSA ATTENDS NICOWA SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONY IN GUSAU.

The Controller of Corrections, Zamfara State Command, Alhaji Musa Tanko, has attended the 2024/2025 graduation ceremony of Junior Secondary School Three and Primary Six pupils of the Nigerian Correctional Service Wives Association (NICOWA) School, Gusau.

The ceremony, which held on Wednesday at the school premises located within the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Gusau, featured various activities marking the successful completion of the academic session.

In his address, Alhaji Musa Tanko commended the school management and teachers for their dedication and hard work, which he said contributed to the students’ academic success.

In a statement issued to newsmen in Gusau by the Public Relations Officer, Mustapha Abubakar ASC 1, Alhaji Musa Tanko described the performances and talents displayed by the graduating students and pupils during the ceremony as impressive, particularly in academics and other areas of learning.

The Controller emphasized that children are the future leaders and called on parents, government at all levels, and well-meaning individuals to support the education of children for a brighter future. He also appreciated Governor Dauda Lawal for pledging to construct additional classrooms and provide more teaching and learning materials for the school.

In a goodwill message, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Malam Wadatau Madawaki, represented by Alhaji Murtala Shuaibu of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), announced the donation of educational materials to the school. He reiterated the commitment of the state government to support the school in all possible areas.

Earlier in his remarks, the Principal of the school, Superintendent of Corrections Haladu Garba Maradun, noted that the pupils and students had participated in various academic competitions across the state with excellent performance. He attributed this to the dedication and professionalism of the school’s teaching staff.

Highlights of the event included a parade, quiz competition, cultural display, news presentation, and gift presentations to outstanding students and pupils.

Matawalle Donates N5 Million, Food Items to Late Emir of Gusau’s Family.

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has donated the sum of 5 million naira to the family of the late Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, who passed away last Thursday in Abuja after a brief illness.

Dr. Matawalle, who is currently on a national assignment overseas, expressed deep regret over his inability to personally attend the funeral, which took place the same day in Gusau.

In a statement by the APC Publicity Secretary in Zamfara State, Yusuf Idris Gusau saud In addition to the cash donation, the minister also provided the bereaved family with 20 bags of rice, 10 bags of millet, 10 bags of maize, and 10 bags of guinea corn as part of his support.

A high-powered delegation led by Senator Hassan Muhammad Nasiha, former Deputy Governor of Zamfara State during Matawalle’s administration, was sent to deliver the donations and offer condolences on behalf of the minister.

Dr. Matawalle described the late Emir as a leader of exceptional character, who remained accessible and compassionate throughout his reign. He recalled the Emir’s legacy of raising and educating numerous orphans, many of whom have grown to become productive members of society.

“The passing of the Emir has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” Matawalle stated, while praying to Almighty Allah to grant him Jannatul Firdaus and give the family the strength to bear the loss.

Receiving the delegation and items on behalf of the family, the District Head of Sunami, Alhaji Mainasara Bello Ciroman Gusau, expressed gratitude to the minister for what he described as a timely and generous gesture. He added that the Emirate would always remember Matawalle’s respect and support for the traditional institution, especially during his tenure as governor.

The delegation included several prominent personalities, including Ibrahim Umar Dangaladima, APC State Secretary, Bashir Idris Ataka, APC Welfare Secretary, Mallam Yusuf Idris Gusau, APC Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Maigandi Danmalikin Gidan Goga, SA Political to the Minister among others.

Similarly, Sheikh Tukur Sani Jangebe offers prayers for Allah Rahma to the late Emir of Gusau.

Zamfara AGILE Mourns the Passing of Emir of Gusau.

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment(Zamfara AGILE Project) expresses deep grief over the death of His Royal Highness the Sarkin Katsinan Gusau and Emir of Gusau Dr. Ibrahim Bello who died in the early hours of Friday 25th July, 2025 in Abuja.

The State Project Coordinator of the project Hajiya Saadatu Abdu Gusau makes the disclosure while commenting on the so sad death of the 71 Old Sarkin Katsinan Gusau and Emir of Gusau.

In a statement by the Project Communication Officer, Zamfara AGILE Project, Bashir Kabiru Ahmad,  

Hajiya Saadatu described late Emir of Gusau as true statesman and God-fearing who for over five decades has tirelessly been serving humanity since before the creation of Zamfara State.

The Coordinator says the Late Emir Dr. Ibrahim Bello had been so passionate about the development of education in his emirate and Zamfara State as a whole particularly the girls education.

Saadatu Abdu Gusau stated that the Zamfara AGILE Project will never forget his fatherly advice and strategic guidance towards effective implementation of the project in Zamfara State.

According to her, the recent strategic guidance towards significant engagement of traditional leaders for improved community engagement on adolescents girls education will surely be implemented for increased enrollment and completion of secondary school education.

The Coordinator who extended Zamfara AGILE Project condolences to Zamfara State Government, his immediate family and good people of the State prayed to Allah The Almighty to grant him Jannatul Firdausi and bless his family.

Zamfara First Lady Mourns the Passing of Emir of Gusau

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau.

A statement by the Senior Special Assistant Media/Press affairs to the Wife of the Governor, Hajiya Rabi'atu Yusuf described the demise of the revered monarch as not only a personal loss to his family but also a monumental loss to the Gusau Emirate, the people of Zamfara State and Nigeria at large.

According to her, the late Emir was a father figure and a distinguished traditional ruler whose reign was characterized by dignity, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to peace and development.

“Since ascending the throne, Dr. Ibrahim Bello devoted himself wholeheartedly to serving his people with humility, compassion and a deep understanding of their needs and aspirations.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal noted that, his leadership earned him the love and respect of his subjects and the admiration of many beyond the borders of Zamfara State.

The First Lady noted that the passing of the Emir has created a significant vacuum in the traditional institution of Gusau, one that will be difficult to fill. 

She added that, his legacy of selfless service and exemplary leadership will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those he led with distinction.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal also extended her deepest condolences to the royal family, the Gusau Emirate Council, and the entire people of Zamfara State. 

She prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives the late Emir’s shortcomings, rewards his noble deeds and grants him Aljannatul Firdausi.

“May Allah also grant his family, the Emirate and the entire state the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Ameen,” she concluded.

Zamfara APC Congratulates New National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe.

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his emergence as the new National Chairman of the party.

The Zamfara State APC Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau stated this  in a statement and made available to newsmen in Gusau.

According to the State Chairman, the Chairman of the Party, Tukur Umar Danfulani described the emergence of Professor Goshwe as a well-deserved development that reflects the confidence reposed in him by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party.

According to the statement, the Zamfara APC sees Professor Goshwe’s appointment as the result of years of dedicated service, loyalty, patience, and exceptional leadership qualities, 

Adding that his leadership is key to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda and actualizing the party’s manifestos.

Danfulani assured the new National Chairman of the unwavering support of the Zamfara APC in his efforts to reposition and strengthen the party nationally.

“We will continue to stand by you, support your leadership, offer valuable advice, and work together to move our great party forward,” the statement noted.

The party also offered prayers for divine guidance and protection for Prof. Goshwe as he assumes his new responsibilities.

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL MOURNS EMIR OF GUSAU

Governor Dauda Lawal has commiserated with the people of Zamfara state over the death of the Emir of Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Bello.

The Emir passed away at the age of 71 on Friday morning in Abuja after a protracted illness. 

In a statement issued to newsmen by the Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, Governor Lawal described the Emir's death as a personal loss, noting that, he was a supportive royal father and a capable leader who dedicated himself to making Zamfara State better.

"I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau.

Dr Lawal expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, immediate and extended families of the late Emir, Gusau emirate, as well as the entire people of Zamfara State. 

"His Highness's passing is a huge loss for the people of Zamfara State, as well as for the North and Nigeria as a whole.

"The late royal father dedicated 10 years of serving the people after becoming the 15th Emir of Gusau on 16 March 2015.

According to the Governor, the late Emir has led with commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of faith.

"The late Emir was an accomplished civil servant who rose to the highest position of Permanent Secretary during his service in old Sokoto and Zamfara states.

"I have lost a confidant and a father whose wisdom guides me and other state leaders. May the Almighty Allah (T) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah."

Funeral Prayer for Late Emir of Katsina in Gusau Holds Today.

The funeral prayer (Salatul Janazah) for the late Emir of Katsina in Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, will take place today, Friday, at the Gusau Central Jumu’ah Mosque, Kanwuri, by 2:30 PM.

This was announced by the Chairman of Gusau Local Government, Abubakar A. Imam, in a post via his official Facebook page.

According to him, the people of Gusau have suffered a great loss a father, a compassionate leader, and a  monarch who lived a humble life and regarded every where.

“I wish to inform the Muslim community in the state and across the country that the Almighty Allah, who has power over everything, has taken the life of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Katsina in Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello,” the statement read.

The Emir passed away on Thursday at a hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.

May Almighty Allah forgive him, have mercy on his soul, and reunite us in Paradise. Ameen.

ZAMFARA APC MOURNS THE DEATH OF EMIR OF GUSAU HRH ALH IBRAHIM BELLO

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress APC has joins people of the state and indeed other Nigerians to mourn the passing of Sarkin Katsinan Gusau, the Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello who died early this morning at a hospital in Abuja, as a result of a brief illness. 

In a statement by the APC Publicity Secretary in Zamfara State, Yusuf Idris Gusau says the APC Chairman in the State, Tukur Umar Danfulani  on behalf of other party members condole the Zamfara State Government, Gusau Emirate Council, the State Council of Chiefs, and the entire citizens over this great loss.

According to the statement, Late Ibrahim Bello was definitely a great leader who carried along the good legacies of his parents in the development of the Emirate and the state and stood tall in the propagation of Islamic tenets and the defence human rights. 

It says he will certainly be remembered for all his leadership qualities, simplicity, and as an ardent Muslim. 

May his gentle soul continue to rest in Jannatu Firdaus aamiin.

AGILE Urges Parents in Zamfara to Utilize it Cash Transfer Programme for Girls’ Education.

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project in Zamfara State has called on parents and guardians to take advantage of its Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme to enroll and retain adolescent girls in school, as part of ongoing efforts to promote female education in the state.

The call was made during a town hall sensitization meeting held in Maru and Bungudu Local Government Areas, which focused on transition into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1) and Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1), as well as discussions on social and environmental issues affecting girls' education.

Addressing the participants, the leader of the AGILE delegation, Hajiya Marayam Garba Nadama said the cardinal objective of the gathering was to sensitise them on it Conditional Cash Transfer.

She explained that, the meeting brought together youth and women groups, traditional and religious leaders, councillors, school authorities, and other stakeholders which she said they can contribute their quota for the success of the programe.

She urged the participants to take the message back to their various communities to ensure widespread awareness of the programme.

Hajiya Maryam Garba Nadama emphasized that, the core aim of the cash support is to ensure that girls complete their education.

Hajiya Maryam expressed happiness that, the information received from some Principals during the sensitisation, enrollment of adolescent girls had increased significantly due to ongoing sensitisation effort.

Also Speaking, Dr. Rabiu Shehu, one of the key facilitators, explained the procedures and benefits of the Conditional Cash Transfer programme in details. 

He pointed out that, only students attending government-owned schools are eligible to benefit from the programme. 

Specifically, girls who have completed primary school and are transitioning into JSS1, as well as those moving from JSS3 to SS1, are the primary targets of the initiative.

Dr. Shehu also stressed the importance of engaging religious and traditional leaders, as well as School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), in achieving the goals of AGILE in Zamfara State.

Similarly, another facilitator during the meeting, Hajiya Maimuna Balarabe reiterated the value of educating the girl child, described it as a way of educating the entire society, since women are the backbone of families and communities.

Hajiya Balarabe noted that, AGILE project is also rehabilitating school facilities, including classrooms and toilets, to create a more conducive learning environment for girls.

She further disclosed that, complaint boxes would be installed in schools to allow community members to freely express their concerns and feedback about any issue related to their programme.

A community leader in Maru Local government said lack of education remains a major contributor to social problems like kidnapping and insecurity.

He stressed that, an educated individual, whether through Islamic or Western education, is unlikely to get involved in such criminal acts.

The participants pledged to spread the message to other villages and settlements within Bungudu/Maru and beyond, urging others to also play their part in ensuring that girls are given the opportunity to acquire quality education.

Also they emphasized the need for every girl child to benefit from the programme and to stay in school for a better future.

TCN Sensitizes Kaduna Communities on Dangers of Encroachment and Vandalism

In a renewed effort to safeguard critical power infrastructure and enhance public safety, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has organized a high-level sensitization program in Kaduna, aimed at enlightening host communities on the dangers of encroachment and the growing menace of vandalism on transmission installations.

The event, held in line with the directives of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), brought together traditional rulers, youth leaders, community stakeholders, and members of the press, reflecting TCN’s broader commitment to infrastructure protection and improved service delivery.

Delivering his welcome address, the General Manager, TCN Kaduna Region, Engineer Nasir Mansur S. Fada, underscored the pivotal role of local communities in the protection of national assets.

Engineer Nasir Fada disclosed that, the company has recently installed new transformers in strategic locations and embarked on several network expansion and upgrade projects to improve power supply. 

However, he warned that these efforts would be futile without the active support of host communities.

According to him, TCN is committed to delivering a more stable and reliable power supply, stressing that, it cannot be achieved if their infrastructure continues to face threats from vandals and illegal constructions beneath transmission lines.

To deepen public understanding, heads of TCN’s System Lines and Electrical Departments also gave technical presentations on the dangers posed by encroachment on the company’s Right of Way.

They explained how illegal buildings and activities near transmission lines obstruct maintenance efforts and pose serious risks to lives and property.

The Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Department also delivered critical safety tips, emphasizing that, close proximity to high-voltage lines can result in electrocution, electrical fires, and other life-threatening incidents.

As part of efforts to promote community vigilance, TCN distributed dedicated hotline numbers—07016839880, 09088380966, and 09088380967—urging residents to promptly report any suspicious activity or vandalism near power facilities.

It emphasized that, the community remains first line of defense.

A representative of TCN’s Public Affairs Department stated. “We rely on the support of traditional institutions, youth groups, and other local actors to help us protect vital infrastructure.”

The program concluded with an interactive session, during which participants shared their concerns, experiences, and suggestions.

Similarly, Community leaders commended TCN for the initiative and pledged to support the campaign for safer and more reliable electricity supply.

AGILE Project to Begin First Phase of Conditional Cash Transfer payment for Zamfara Girl students this July.

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment AGILE Project in Zamfara State has announced that, the first phase of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) disbursement for adolescent girls students will commence in this month of July.

The Conditional Cash Transfer Officer of the AGILE project in Zamfara State, Hajiya Umma Salma Abubakar Usman made this known while interactive with Journalist in Gusau the Zamfara State Capital on the programme.

According to her, the payment process is currently in the final stages while the student ATMs is currently under production.

Hajiya UmmaSalma assured that, by this month of July, the validated students would start receiving their payments while some have already begun getting text messages of their account numbers. 

She explained that the CCT initiative was introduced specifically to support economically disadvantaged parents, enabling them to keep their daughters in school. 

The programme officer also highlighted the security challenges in Zamfara State, which have left many women widowed and without the financial strength to educate their children.

“This is why the CCT component was introduced into the AGILE project,” she said.

She emphasized that, AGILE does not take children to school directly but rather visits schools to identify and enroll eligible students into the program.

 “Under AGILE, we do not collect any fees for student registration,” she added.

Hajiya UmmaSalma Abubukar further explained that, the program targets girls in Primary 6 and JSS 3, because are key transition points where parents are required to buy new uniforms, shoes, school bags, and pay enrollment fees into new schools such as JSS1 or SS1.

“If a parent can’t even afford basic food items like millet or maize, how would they think of sending their daughter to school at such a crucial point?” she asked.

“Even if schools are renovated, if poor parents are not financially supported, many children will still remain at home. That’s why this intervention became necessary,” Ummusalma explained.

She said that enrollment is being done by using official school registers and that students are called one by one for proper documentation. 

"Each student must be accompanied by her mother or a close relative for the capturing of their name, photo, Bank Verification Number (BVN), and phone number before final validation.

She added that payments are being made in batches ranging from ₦15,000 to ₦25,000.

Hajiya UmmuSalma Abubakar emphasized that, students must maintain at least 70% attendance in school to qualify for the next phase of the payment.

Also contributing, Bashir Kabiru Ahmad, the AGILE Project Communications Officer, stated that, the initiative is fully committed to improving the education of adolescent girls, under the leadership of Hajiya Sa’adatu Abdu Gusau.

Alhaji Bashir Ahmad expressed happiness that, more people are beginning to understand what AGILE is all about, and they are now even helping to explain it to one another.

According to him, the AGILE intervention covers several areas, including Construction and renovation of schools, Teaching of computer literacy, Vocational skills training, Provision of clean water and toilets in schools snd tackling all barriers that hinder school attendance

Alhaji Bashir Ahmad explained that, the ultimate goal is to ensure that every girl remains in school until she completes her education.

“Sometimes, even the lack of water alone is enough to stop a girl from going to school.”

He called for increased public awarenes, noting that petty trading or home responsibilities should not be allowed to keep girls away from school.

Zamfara APC Congratulates Acting National Chairman Dalori, expresses confidence in his leadership.

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has joined millions of Nigerians in congratulating Mr Ali Bukar Dalori on his appointment as the Acting National Chairman of the party.

In a statement issued to newsmen by the APC Publicity Secretary in Zamfara State, Yusuf Idris Gusau, the party described the appointment as a testament to the trust and confidence reposed in Dalori by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the national leadership of the party, and the general membership.

According to the statement, the appointment was a clear indication that, the National Leader of the party, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside other party stalwarts and teeming supporters, have immense confidence in your ability to steer the affairs of the APC towards greater heights.

The Zamfara APC prayed for divine guidance and protection for Dalori, urging him to bring his wealth of experience, dedication, and innovative ideas to bear in moving the party forward.

“With your vast experience in party administration, from serving as State Chairman to Deputy National Chairman, and now Acting National Chairman, we are optimistic that the APC will witness significant transformation under your leadership, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Gusau added.

The statement maintains that, on behalf of the state party leadership, elders, State Working Committee and supporters at all levels, reaffirmed their confidence in Dalori’s capacity to lead the party successfully.

“Once again, congratulations sir. We assure you of our unwavering support throughout this crucial assignment,” the statement concluded.