Zamfara First Lady Leads Cancer Awareness Campaign, Urges Early Detection among Young Girls.

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has called on young girls and other women to prioritize their health through regular medical check-ups for early detection of cancer for quick medication.

Hajiya Huriyya made the call during the School Based Cancer Awareness Outreach organized by the First Ladies Again Cancer in collaboration with her office held at a government Girls Secondary School Gusau.

The awareness campaigns had brought  together adolescent girls students, health experts and other stakeholders.

Addressing the students and other participants, Hajiya Huriyya emphasized that awareness and knowledge are powerful tools in preventing the disease.

Hajiya Huriyya said the campaign reflects the global theme Every story is unique, every journey matters which underscores the importance of solidarity in the fight against cancer.

“As women, we face health challenges such as breast and cervical cancer. Let us prioritize our health and encourage others to do the same. Gaining early knowledge and awareness will help you make wise choices and build a healthier, brighter future for our society,” she advised.

Hajiya Huriyya, who also served as the National Secretary of the First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), commended the organization for its commitment to educating communities and empowering women with life-saving information. 

She assured that, her office would continue to sensitize the public on early detection, regular screening, and healthy living practices.

Delivering a lecture at the event, the Chairperson of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Zamfara State Chapter, Dr. Khadija Kanoma, highlighted that, breast and cervical cancers remain the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide.

Dr. Kanoma explained that, one in every eight women is at risk of developing breast cancer, stressing that, early detection through self-examination and regular screening can significantly reduce mortality.

“Prevention starts with awareness. Regular self-breast examination, avoiding cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise are vital preventive measures,” she said.

Dr Khadija Kano also stated that, cervical cancer, caused mainly by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is entirely preventable through vaccination and early screening.

According to her, as part of the initiative, the First Lady has approved free cancer screening for 200 women across the state, while medical experts demonstrated practical steps for early detection and the importance of timely hospital response.

Ealier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Hajiya Maryam Shantali lauded the initiative, described it as a reflection of the First Lady’s compassion and commitment to the welfare of women and girls in the state.

"By bringing this awareness campaign to our schools, you are not only promoting early detection and prevention of cancer but also inspiring a culture of health consciousness among our girls, the future mothers and leaders of our society,” she stated.

Hajiya Shantali further noted that the outreach aligns with Governor Dauda Lawal’s vision of transforming schools into platforms for both academic learning and life skills education.

One of the students who spoke on behalf of her colleague commended the Zamfara first lady for all her laudable initiatives to improve the lives of women.

She also said they would take the campaign seriously for the benefit of their health.

During the awareness sensitisation, experts have demonstrated on how the students would carryout early detection of cancer among them.

Experts Advocate Stronger Legal Framework and Gender-Responsive Policies to Tackle Climate Change and Conflict in Nigeria.

Experts have called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s climate governance and policy implementation to strengthen accountability, ensure gender inclusivity, and address the rising link between climate change, insecurity, and social vulnerability.

The Deputy Director of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Dr. Terfa Abraham, said this while speaking during a webinar organized by the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN).

According to Dr Abraham, the National Assembly must first strengthen the legal framework for climate action in Nigeria, nothing that, the current Climate Change Act is weak and limits effective legislative oversight.

He noted that, under the existing law, the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) is chaired by the President and Vice President, making it difficult for the National Assembly to hold the Council accountable.

“No legislator can effectively engage the Council in such a setup. We must amend the Act to create a clear and functional governance framework,” he emphasized.

Dr Terfa Abraham urged lawmakers to leverage their constituency projects to address local climate impacts, promote adaptation, and support women farmers through community-based initiatives.

“Climate change effects are happening right in the constituencies drought, erratic rainfall, biodiversity loss. Legislators must use their constituency engagement platforms to support climate-resilient farming, empower women, and promote sustainable livelihoods,” he added.

Dr. Abraham stressed that, Nigeria’s policy direction must recognize the link between climate change and insecurity, noting that, women are often the most affected during floods, droughts, and conflicts.

“Climate change leads to insecurity, and insecurity worsens climate impacts. During floods or conflicts, it is women who flee with children, lose farmland, and face food insecurity. Policies must be gender-responsive and sensitive to these realities,” he said.

He further called for the legislation of national development frameworks such as the Renewed Hope Agenda to ensure continuity beyond political cycles.

Also speaking, the Gender and GBV Expert Advisor, ACReSAL Project, Mrs. Helen John, underscored the importance of gender integration and capacity building at all levels of climate programming.

“Gender mainstreaming should not be treated as an afterthought. Policymakers and project managers must understand why gender integration is crucial and provide adequate funding for it,” she said.

Mrs. John emphasized that, women should not only be beneficiaries but also leaders and decision-makers in climate and development programs. 

She cited examples from Nasarawa and Adamawa states where community women now lead mixed groups and have begun gaining access to land ownership through ACReSAL interventions.

In her remarks, the Child Protection Manager at Goal Prime Organization Nigeria, Hauwa Danjuma, highlighted the role of localization in ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and gender-responsive humanitarian interventions.

“Localization is the long-term solution to sustainable climate response. Local actors understand the context, cultural dynamics, and community needs better,” she explained.

Hauwa called for direct funding and capacity building for community-based women organizations to strengthen their technical and financial ability to engage in climate and peacebuilding processes.

“Most community-based women organizations lack capacity and resources. Empowering them will enhance women’s voices in decision-making and build local ownership of climate initiatives,” she added

Earlier, the Programme Manager of Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), Aisha Isa, said the webinar was part of the organization’s quarterly dialogue series aimed at addressing emerging issues around climate, governance, and gender.

“We’ll continue to unpack challenges around climate, governance, and gender, bringing together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to shape solutions that are inclusive and leave no one behind,” she stated.

According to her, the session aimed to txplore the interconnections between climate change, gender inequality, and conflict and Showcase women and youth-led grassroots initiatives promoting peace and environmental resilience.

Similarly to Co-create practical strategies for gender-responsive climate justice and Strengthen multi-stakeholder collaboration for peace and sustainability.

The webinar, titled “Climate Change and Conflict: Advancing Climate Justice through Gender-Responsive Peacebuilding,” brought together civil society actors, and development partners to deliberate on how gender-inclusive approaches can strengthen Nigeria’s climate resilience and peacebuilding efforts.

Background

The increasing incidence of climate-induced disasters continues to compound Nigeria’s security and development challenges.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), over 5.2 million Nigerians were affected by floods and climate disasters in 2024, resulting in 1,237 deaths, the displacement of 1.2 million people, and destruction of over 116,000 homes and 1.4 million hectares of farmland across 35 states.

Experts warn that without deliberate, gender-sensitive, and community-based interventions, climate change will continue to exacerbate poverty, displace rural populations, and fuel violent conflicts across the country.

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Zamfara First Lady Advocates Regular Health Screening, Cancer Awareness Among Women.

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has urged women across Nigeria to prioritize their health through regular medical screenings and active participation in initiatives that promote cancer awareness and treatment.

She made the call when she joined other First Ladies, dignitaries, health advocates, and citizens in Abuja for the Walk Away Cancer 2025 campaign to commemorate World Cancer Day 2025, themed “United by Unity.”

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal reaffirmed her commitment to the fight against cancer, stressing the importance of early detection, regular medical check-ups, and community support, particularly among women.

In a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Wife of the Governor, Rabi Yusuf, Hajiya Huriyya emphasized the need for women to care for themselves and one another.

“As women, we must care for ourselves and for one another. For those battling cancer, let us stand with them in love, strength, and hope. Together, we can build a future where no one faces cancer alone,” she said.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal further noted that, behind every cancer diagnosis is a face, a name, and a life that deserves care and dignity.

The Zamfara First Lady commended the women of Zamfara State for their resilience and commitment to health-related causes, assuring them of her continued advocacy for cancer prevention, awareness, and access to quality healthcare.

The event, which drew hundreds of participants, was filled with colour, energy, and compassion as attendees walked in solidarity with those lost to cancer, those still fighting, and those who can be protected through awareness and early detection.

Wamban Shinkafi Supporters Accuse Zamfara APC of Favoritism.

Supporters of the Wamban Shinkafi Democratic Front, under the chairmanship of Yushau Abdullahi Mada, have alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State is promoting favoritism among its members.

Speaking with journalists in Gusau on Saturday, Mada stated that the group was deeply concerned about an emerging culture of favoritism and exclusion within the state chapter of the APC.

He explained that, the group’s leader, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, had remained steadfast in his commitment to the unity and progress of both the party and Zamfara State, despite attempts to malign his reputation.

“We came across a certain publication filled with falsehoods, slander, and insults directed at our political leader, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi. This was clearly done to please the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and to create the impression that there are ‘favored’ and ‘unfavored’ members within the Zamfara APC,” Mada said.

Yushau Mada alleged that, in 2019, when Dr. Shinkafi was preparing for his governorship campaign under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), several political figures including Bello Matawalle, the late Ibrahim Mallaha, Senator Sahabi Yau, Kabiru Amadu Mai Palace, Mahdi Aliyu Gusau, and the late Jamilu Aliyu Zannan Gusau visited Shinkafi to seek his support in their effort to unseat the then-ruling government.

“Out of humility and goodwill, Dr. Shinkafi accepted their request on the understanding that, regardless of who won the election, they would all work together for the progress and development of Zamfara State,” he explained.

Following the election, Yushau Abdullahi Mada said, Dr. Shinkafi challenged the results at the election tribunal on grounds of irregularities. 

"However, after appeals from notable figures, including the then-Attorney General Zarumi and elder statesman General Ali Gusau (rtd), Shinkafi withdrew his petition, an action that ultimately cleared the path for Bello Matawalle to become governor.

“Sadly, after assuming office, Matawalle failed to honor the promises and understanding reached with Dr. Shinkafi, Mada lamented.

He  also alleged that, Dr. Shinkafi played a crucial role in shaping Matawalle’s early policies, especially during the first 100 days of his administration, before their relationship deteriorated due to differences in governance style.

“When Dr. Shinkafi observed that the administration was drifting from its original vision, he advised the governor in good faith. Unfortunately, instead of improving, things worsened,” Mada said.

He argued that, Dr. Shinkafi was never Matawalle’s subordinate and they were political allies who shared a common goal for the progress of Zamfara State.

The Wamban Shinkafi Democratic Front therefore called on APC leaders in Zamfara to fear God and stop taking sidesurging them to treat all members equally.

Mada also criticized the party’s Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris, accusing him of bias.

“As the Publicity Secretary, your duty is to promote the image and activities of the APC, not to serve as a personal spokesperson for the Minister of Defence. You should either be neutral or resign,” he declared.

He also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC National Leadership to caution Matawalle and his loyalists against using a federal office for partisan political battles.

The group had also reaffirmed its total support for Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, describing him as “la dedicated APC stalwart who consistently stands against injustice.

“We believe in equity, fairness, and justice,” Mada said.

“In the 26 years of democracy in Zamfara, the state has had three governors from Zamfara West Ahmad Sani Yarima, Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, and Bello Mohammed Matawalle who collectively governed for 20 years. The North had four years, while the Central Zone has just completed two years.”

The group therefore declared its opposition to any plan to field another governorship candidate from Zamfara West in 2027, insisting that power should shift to the North or Central Senatorial Zone.

“Justice and fairness are our guiding principles. Anything short of that will not have our support,” Mada affirmed.

He concluded by describing Dr. Shinkafi as a visionary and principled leader whose political ideology places the needs of the people above personal interest.

Yashau Mada urged supporters to remain law-abiding and committed to the collective vision of a peaceful, just, and prosperous Zamfara State.

Similarly, the APC Publicity Secretary in Zamfara State 

Zamfara AGILE Project Leads Effort to Domesticate National Gender Policy in Education.

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project in Zamfara State has convened a multi-stakeholder forum to review and domesticate the National Policy on Gender in Education, aligning it with the specific context and realities of the state.

Speaking during a two-day validation meeting in Gusau, the Deputy Project Coordinator of the AGILE Project in Zamfara, Dr. Salisu Dalhatu, said the forum brought together critical stakeholders from various government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), as well as key actors in the education sector.

Dr. Dalhatu explained that the meeting aimed to review and validate the National Policy on Gender in Education and adapt it to suit Zamfara’s local realities.

He noted that the next phase of the process would focus on ensuring government ownership and institutional reforms that reflect the state’s priorities particularly in light of the state of emergency on education declared by the Zamfara State Government in November 2023.

“Our goal is to ensure that the policy aligns with ongoing education reforms,” he stated. “After this, we will develop a costed implementation plan with a monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress.”

According to him, the domesticated policy will help institutionalize the gender agenda across all MDAs, ensuring sustainability even after the AGILE project ends.

Dr. Dalhatu further outlined the timeline for completing the policy process, noting that the review meeting would be followed by a costed implementation planning session with stakeholders and a final validation meeting on Saturday.

“After validation, we will clean up the document and present it to the State Project Steering Committee, which includes about nine Commissioners and heads of MDAs. The final step will be submit to the Honourable Commissioner for Education for presentation to the State Executive Council for consent and adoption,” he explained.

Highlighting the broader vision of the initiative, Dr. Dalhatu expressed optimism that Zamfara would emerge as a frontline state in implementing gender-responsive educational policies.

“Our expectation is for Zamfara to lead in promoting gender equality in education and ensuring that adolescent girls and all girls in the state have equal access, retention, and completion opportunities at all levels of learning,” he said.

Dr. Dalhatu emphasized that the AGILE project will continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening girls’ education and empowerment in Zamfara, promoting inclusive access and sustainable policy reforms across the education sector.

Speaking during the meeting, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Malam Wadato Madawaki, commended the validation process of the State Policy on Gender in Education.

Represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Sani Mailafia, the Commissioner explained that the initiative aligns with the National Policy on Gender in Education, which seeks to address disparities and promote equal access to quality education for all.

Malam Wadato noted that under the AGILE Programme, states are expected to domesticate the national policy, adapting it to local contexts, developing implementation frameworks, and establishing tools for monitoring progress over the next decade.

The domesticated gender policy, he said, is expected to guide Zamfara’s education system in ensuring equal opportunities for boys and girls, reducing gender-based barriers, and fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

He added that once validated, the policy would be printed and rolled out for implementation across the state, describing the process as a key step toward achieving quality, equitable education for every child in Zamfara State.

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, inaugurates Digital E-learning Library in Zamfara

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has inaugurated the Digital E-Learning Library in Gusau, Zamfara State as one of the ten states selected across the country for the impactful project under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Senator Tinubu said the project is not just about technology and computers, but about empowering young people, bridging the digital divide, and opening new doors of knowledge and innovation for the people of Zamfara and beyond.

Represented by the First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, the Nigerian First Lady described education as the bedrock of development.

She noted that in today’s digital era, access to modern learning tools is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

According to her, through the digital library, students, teachers, researchers, and the general public will have access to a wealth of information, resources, and opportunities at their fingertips.

Senator Tinubu explained that the Renewed Hope Initiative is driven by a vision to support education, innovation, and social development, adding that the digital library reflects that vision. 

She commended the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and NITDA for their excellence in executing the project.

Similarly, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal expressed deep appreciation to her husband, Governor Dauda Lawal, and his administration for their continued commitment to improving the education sector in Zamfara State. 

She urged students, teachers, and researchers to make judicious use of the facility as a tool for learning, growth, and building a brighter future for generations to come.

Earlier, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her dedication to advancing digital learning through the establishment of the E-Learning Library under the Renewed Hope Initiative in the state.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Maryam Yahaya, the Commissioner described the project as a milestone in promoting innovation, digital inclusion, and access to quality education.

Madawaki also lauded the Zamfara First Lady for graciously representing the Nigerian First Lady at the event and for her continuous support toward the development of education in the state.

He noted that the E-Learning Library project aligns with the vision of Governor Dauda Lawal, who declared a State of Emergency on Education shortly after assuming office, a move that has already yielded remarkable progress in the sector.

FRSC Zamfara Urges Road Users to Take Responsibility for Safety During Ember Months.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Zamfara State Sector Command, has called on all road users to take personal responsibility for their safety to prevent road traffic crashes during the Ember Months and beyond.

The Sector Commander, Aliyu Ma’aji, gave the charge during a road show held on Wednesday in Gusau, the state capital, as part of the 2025 Ember Months Public Enlightenment and Sensitization Campaign.

The event, themed “Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving,” aims to promote safer driving habits and reduce the rate of road crashes across the state.

Ma’aji noted that the road show campaign aligns with Goal 1 of the FRSC’s 2025 Corporate Strategy, which seeks to achieve a 10% reduction in road fatalities and injuries through focused interventions and continuous public sensitization.

According to him, the sensitization program is part of the Corps’ efforts to address the alarming rate of crashes and fatalities often associated with the yuletide season.

He identified human factors such as over-speeding, reckless driving, phone use while driving, fatigue, and other forms of distracted driving as major contributors to road accidents.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility, not that of the FRSC alone. With collective effort and adherence to traffic regulations, road crashes can be reduced, and our roads can be made safer for all,” Ma’aji emphasized.

He further urged motorists and other road users to always obey traffic rules and regulations, remain cautious, and prioritize safety, especially during the Ember Months when road traffic is typically high.

The event had in attendance stakeholders from various organizations, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Special Marshals, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, Road Safety Clubs, and other road safety advocates.

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Zamfara First Lady Commends Launch of Nutrition 774 Initiative in the state.

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has expressed delight over the official launching of the Nutrition 774 Programme in the state.

She also commended Governor Dauda Lawal for inaugurating the Zamfara State Nutrition Council, which will coordinate and regulate all nutrition-related activities across the state.

In a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Wife of the Governor, Rabi Yusuf, Huriyya noted that, the Governor’s remarks at the event deeply resonated with her, particularly his assertion that they cannot build the Zamfara of their dreams if the challenge of poor nutrition persists.

She explained that the Nutrition 774 Programme, which aims to promote access to nutritious food across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, reflects the Zamfara State Government’s strong commitment to ending malnutrition and hunger among its people.

The First Lady reaffirmed her office’s commitment to supporting the programme through ongoing food distribution and agricultural empowerment initiatives designed to reach vulnerable families across the 14 local government areas of the state.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal emphasized her dedication to ensuring that women and children have access to the nutritious food they need for healthy growth and development.

Her Excellency further described the initiative as a major step toward lasting change, adding that, “God willing, we will continue to work hand in hand with our partners to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Zamfara State.”

Zamfara Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service visits Custom head in Gusau, Explores Areas of Collaboration.

The Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Zamfara State Command, Murtala Muhammad Haruna, has paid a courtesy visit to the Officer in Charge of the Nigeria Customs Service, Zamfara Outstation, Sokoto/Zamfara Command, in Gusau.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara State Command of the Correctional Service, ASC I Mustapha Abubakar, the visit, which took place on Wednesday, was aimed at strengthening the existing cordial relationship between the two sister agencies and exploring possible areas of collaboration, particularly in the fields of security and intelligence sharing.

Speaking during the visit, CCS Murtala Muhammad emphasized the need for continuous cooperation among security agencies, noting that every agency has a vital role to play in maintaining internal security. 

He stressed that effective synergy and mutual understanding remain key to achieving national security objectives.

The Controller further took time to explain the two faculties of the Nigerian Correctional Service under the 2019 Correctional Act — Custodial and Non-Custodial services.

He elaborated that, the Non-Custodial Service comprises four key measures: Community Service, Parole, Probation, and Restorative Justice, in addition to any other measures deemed appropriate by a competent court.

In his response, the Assistant Controller of Customs (ACC) Sani Zaharadeen, who is in charge of the Gusau Outstation, expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the NCoS in areas of mutual interest.

ACC Zaharadeen also commended the Zamfara State Command of the Correctional Service for its continuous efforts in reforming and rehabilitating offenders through various correctional programmes.

The visit was rounded off with an interactive session focused on identifying new areas of cooperation and renewing the commitment of both agencies to sustaining the partnership for improved service delivery and internal security.

Zamfara Correctional Service Seeks NHIS Enrollment for Inmates.

The Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Zamfara State Command, Murtala Muhammad Haruna, has called for the enrollment of inmates into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to ensure consistent access to quality healthcare services.

He made the call during a courtesy visit to the Zamfara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, in her office in Gusau.

Haruna said the initiative aligns with the vision of the Controller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service and is aimed at improving the welfare of inmates across custodial centres.

The Controller also emphasized the need to upgrade the Correctional Service Clinic at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Gusau, and to provide adequate medical equipment and essential drugs to meet the increasing healthcare needs of inmates. 

Murtala Mohammed Haruna noted that, the move complements President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on enhancing the welfare of all Nigerians, including those in custody.

In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Mustapha Abubakar, the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Correctional Service and the State Ministry of Health to improve healthcare delivery for inmates across Zamfara’s custodial facilities.

Responding, Dr. Nafisat Muhammad Maradun commended the Correctional Service for its commitment to the welfare of inmates and the protection of public safety.

She revealed that Governor Dauda Lawal had already procured the medical items and equipment promised during his recent visit to the Gusau Correctional Facility.

According to her, the procured drugs will soon be handed over to the Command, while the equipment will be installed once the clinic upgrade is completed.

The Commissioner assured the Controller of the Ministry’s readiness, under the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal, to partner with the Correctional Service in improving healthcare delivery.

She added that the collaboration would cover technical support for renovations, facility upgrades, and the NHIS enrollment process.

AGILE and Zamfara Radio Mark 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, in collaboration with the Zamfara State Media Corporation, has joined the global community to celebrate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child by providing a platform for female students to express their thoughts on the significance of the day.

The event, held at the Zamfara State Radio studio in Gusau, brought together girls from various secondary schools to share their views on girl-child education, empowerment, and challenges affecting them.

Speaking during the celebration, the AGILE project Communications Officer in Zamfara State, Bashir Ahmad, said the day was set aside to encourage and motivate girls to pursue education to realize their full potential.

According to him, the commemoration served as a reminder to parents and guardians on the importance of enrolling their daughters in school to enable them to acquire quality education, which is the foundation for a better society.

Bashir Ahmad emphasized that, such discussions are vital with a view to influence parents’ perceptions about the education of their daughters for prosperous community.

He reaffirmed AGILE’s commitment to continue partnering media organizations to promote programs and activities that support adolescent girls’ development perticulerly in the area of education.

One of the student participated, Zainab Sadiq, expressed happiness over the commemoration, explaining that, it gave them an opportunity to voice out the challenges they face and possible ways to overcome them.

She stressed that, education played a vital role in shaping their future, lamented that, many girls still prefer staying at home than going to school.

 “We now understand that, attending school is more beneficial because when a woman gets married, she  can raise and educate her children properly,” she said.

Zainab revealed that, her ambition was to become a Medical Doctor to contribute meaningfully in the society and she urged her peers to take their studies seriously for a better future.

Another student, Hafsa Lukman Wakili from Government Girls Secondary School, Saminaka Gusau, described education as the greatest achievement a girl can have.

She emphasized that, education would definitely benefits her, her family, and the entire society.

Similarly another student, Aisha Abdullahi stated that her goal was to become a health worker in order to help women, especially during childbirth.

While Hauwa’u Abdurrahman narrated that, girl-child education is a form of empowerment that helps girls realize their God-given potential.

Also speaking, Mrs. Zainab Sani Mada, a teacher, said that people with physical disabilities can attain great heights in life through education, like anyone else, if given the right opportunities.

The event ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to education and calling for more awareness to encourage parents to send their daughters to school.

Zamfara First Lady Calls for More Opportunities for Girls to Excel.

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has called for sustained efforts to create more opportunities for girls in business, entrepreneurship, leadership, politics, ICT, science, and technology to enable them to reach their full potentials.

She made the call while joining the global community to commemorate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme: “The Girl I Am, the Change I Lead: Girls on the Front lines of Crisis.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal emphasized that investing in the girl child is an investment in progress, peace, and prosperity.

Adding that, girls deserve quality education, opportunities, and representation  not as privileges, but as fundamental rights.

She expressed optimism that, the voices of girls will continue to be heard, their dreams supported, and their aspirations realized.

The First Lady encouraged girls across Zamfara State and beyond to believe in their abilities, and continue striving to make positive change in society. 

She urged them to keep dreaming, keep learning, and keep working toward becoming the best versions of themselves, reminding them that the world is waiting for their light to shine.

Reaffirming her strong commitment to promoting quality education, empowerment, and protection of the girl child in Zamfara, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal noted that, this year’s theme serves as a reminder that girls are not just victims of challenges but leaders and change makers in their homes, schools, and communities.

In a statement by her Press Secretary, Rabi Yusuf, the First Lady observed that even in times of conflict, poverty, or hardship, girls continue to demonstrate resilience, courage, and leadership — proving that their voices are vital to building peace and sustainable development.

“Every great nation begins with empowered girls girls who are taught to believe in their worth, pursue their purpose, and lead with courage.” 

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal argued that, supporting girls on the front lines of crisis means giving them access to quality education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities, enabling them to rebuild and shape stronger, more inclusive societies.

Zamfara Commissioner Commends Governor Lawal’s Drive to Attract Foreign Investment.

Zamfara State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Abdulrahman Muhammad Tumbido, has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his visionary leadership in promoting Zamfara as an emerging investment destination.

The Commissioner, who joined Governor Lawal on an official delegation to the Canada–Africa Trade and Investment Expo held in Toronto, Canada, said the governor’s participation has opened new opportunities for the state in trade and economic development.

In a statement issued by the Information Officer of the Ministry, Jamilu Bello, Tumbido assured that the Ministry of Commerce and Industry would ensure continuous follow-up to actualize the partnerships and agreements reached during the trip.

According to him, Governor Lawal showcased Zamfara’s vast mineral resources and exportable agricultural products during the exhibition segment of the Expo, which attracted the attention of international investors and development partners.

Similarly, during the visit, Zamfara State signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CStaible Inc., Canada, aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness development, and youth empowerment across the state.

Governor Lawal also delivered the keynote address at the event, titled “Strengthening Canada–Africa Partnerships in Trade and Investment for Sustainable Growth.” 

He emphasized the importance of genuine collaboration between Africa and Canada to drive sustainable economic progress.

The Zamfara delegation further participated in the U.S.–Africa Business Week and the Unstoppable Africa Forum in New York, where Governor Lawal served as a keynote speaker and panelist, sharing insights on investment opportunities in Zamfara State.

Tumbido reiterated the commitment of the Ministry to build on the governor’s international engagements and ensure that Zamfara continues to attract investors for economic diversification and job creation.

Nigeria at 65: Niger State Permanent Secretary Hails Progress, Calls for Unity

By Nura Mohammed,Minna

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure Development in Niger State, Hassan Baba Estu, has congratulated Nigerians and urged them to remain united and committed to national growth.

Estu said the anniversary is not just about the passage of years but a celebration of resilience, unity, and the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers who fought for freedom and self-governance.

He noted that at 65, Nigeria has continued to strengthen democracy and development despite challenges.

Hassan Estu commended Governor Umar Mohammed Bago for what he described as “remarkable strides” in both infrastructure and human capacity development. He highlighted ongoing expansion of road networks, introduction of modern facilities, and deliberate efforts to connect rural and urban communities to boost economic growth.

According to him, the governor’s dual focus on infrastructure and empowerment of youths and women represents a holistic model of development that is already yielding results.

“I take this opportunity to thank His Excellency Umar Bago for his vision, courage, and commitment within just two years in office. His leadership is bringing real change to our dear state,” Estu stated.

At the national level, he urged Nigerians to be patient with ongoing reforms, stressing that development is a gradual process that requires unity, sacrifice, and trust in government.

He called on citizens to renew their patriotism, celebrate diversity, and work together to build a greater Nigeria.

“May Almighty God continue to bless Niger State and Nigeria with peace, prosperity, and progress. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary,” Estu prayed.