Governor Dauda Lawal has informed the World Bank that his administration is making significant progress in the fight against banditry in Zamfara State.
He made this known during an official visit to the World Bank office in Abuja on Friday.
According to a statement released on Saturday by Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor’s spokesperson, the meeting focused on key development initiatives, including education, healthcare, climate resilience, and agriculture.
The statement further noted that the visit aimed to strengthen cooperation and foster a stronger partnership between the Zamfara State government and the World Bank.
Governor Lawal reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the World Bank, acknowledging its support in driving sustainable development and poverty alleviation efforts in the state.
“I want to express my gratitude to the World Bank for its continuous support. Our development priorities align with the bank’s mission to reduce poverty and promote sustainable progress.
“We understand the security challenges that have previously hindered the full implementation of projects in Zamfara. However, we are addressing these concerns, and the situation is improving,” the governor stated.
He highlighted steps taken by his administration to enhance security, including increased patrols and strategic interventions to mitigate threats.
“Our government is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property. We have provided security agencies with necessary logistics and support to maintain peace and stability,” he added.
Governor Lawal also assured the World Bank that necessary safety measures were in place to protect its staff during their visits to Zamfara for project supervision and monitoring.
“I want to reassure the World Bank that we have implemented continuous security assessments to promptly address any emerging threats, ensuring a safe environment for all development partners.
“Banditry on our highways, villages, and cities is under control. We are steadily winning the battle against criminal elements, and normalcy is returning to our communities. This progress is evident in the reduced number of reported incidents and the increasing pace of project implementation across Zamfara State.
“I also extend an invitation to the Country Director to visit Zamfara soon and witness firsthand the progress of World Bank-supported programs and our efforts in transforming the state,” Lawal concluded.
The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, praised Governor Lawal for his administration’s achievements.
“I am truly impressed with the system you have put in place. Congratulations on accomplishing so much within such a short period,” Diop remarked.
During the meeting, the Task Team Leader of the NG-CARES project also lauded the successful implementation model in Zamfara, revealing that it is now being adopted in other states and even internationally.
“We are replicating the Zamfara model in other Nigerian states and extending it to other countries. I commend the governor and the state government for their remarkable efforts,” she stated.