By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has informed the World Bank that his administration is making significant progress in addressing security challenges, particularly banditry, in the state.
According to a press release issued by Suleiman Bala Idris, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Governor Lawal made this known during an official visit to the World Bank office in Abuja on Friday.
"We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of lives and property by providing adequate logistics and support to security agencies to maintain peace and stability," Governor Lawal said, as quoted by Idris.
Idris further stated that the governor assured the World Bank staff of their safety during support, supervision, and monitoring visits to Zamfara State. "We have established mechanisms for ongoing security assessments to promptly address any emerging threats and ensure a secure environment for all development partners," Governor Lawal added.
Governor Lawal emphasized that banditry attacks on highways, villages, and cities are under control, and life is returning to normal in the communities. He attributed this progress to the state government's efforts to address security challenges and invited the World Bank Country Director to visit Zamfara State to see the implementation of World Bank-supported programs.
The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, commended Governor Lawal for positively advancing Zamfara State. "I am impressed by the system you put in place. Congratulations on achieving such feats in such a very short time," he said.
The Task Team Leader of the NG-CARES project also highlighted the success of the implementation model in Zamfara, noting that it is being adopted in other states and countries. "I must commend the governor and the state government for their efforts," she said.
This development is a significant boost to the state's efforts to address security challenges. Previously, Governor Lawal had reiterated his administration's commitment to improving the welfare of families of fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration. The governor had also commended the Nigerian military's efforts in the renewed onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.
In a related development, Governor Lawal inaugurated a 21-member Board of Trustees of the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund to gather funds and aid the government's efforts in tackling insecurity. The governor also promised to end banditry in Zamfara State and has taken steps to improve the welfare of families of fallen heroes.
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Security