Gov Lawal Has Performed Exceptionally Well – ALGON Chairman

Sumaila Useni Morki is the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Zamfara State. In this interview, Moriki, who is also the chairman of Zurmi Local Government, speaks on Governor Dauda Lawal’s achievements.

Governor Dauda Lawal has initiated several projects across the state. What has been the impact?

His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, has clear priorities: security, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and agriculture, including food security. In the Zurmi Local Government Area, he has performed exceptionally well. In the education sector, many schools have been renovated, and textbooks and exercise books have been supplied to pupils and students. Before he assumed office, there was a significant backlog of unpaid examination fees, including WAEC and NECO. In a short period, he cleared over ₦6 billion of these debts, enabling many students, including those from Zurmi, to sit for their examinations.

What about the health sector?

Many health facilities have been renovated and equipped with modern equipment. We have also ensured that drugs are supplied monthly to these facilities, making healthcare services accessible and free for our people. We have 58 PHCs. Most are fully operational, although a few are still undergoing renovation and equipping. With the support of His Excellency, we are doing all we can to ensure all become fully operational to provide effective healthcare services to the people. Health, as it is often said, is wealth. We prioritise health and will not relent.

Farmers faced challenges with fertiliser and inputs last season. What intervention did the government provide?

The government distributed agricultural inputs free of charge to farmers—not just in Zurmi but across the 14 local government areas. These included fertiliser, mechanical equipment, chemicals, and improved seeds.

What is being done to empower the youth?

Employment is not just about putting people on the government payroll. His Excellency has created opportunities for young people to gain skills and become self-sufficient. Many youths have been trained at various centres. Some have already started businesses and are employing others. That is the kind of empowerment we are advocating for—where beneficiaries become employers of labour.

How are you working with traditional and religious leaders to sustain peace?

The Local Government Chairman is the Chief Security Officer of the local government. However, we work closely with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to sustain peace. Security has improved significantly compared to the past. The governor has made it clear that he will not compromise in the fight against banditry, while also offering those willing to surrender a chance for rehabilitation. Recently, the state procured over 25 armoured vehicles to strengthen security operations.

How is the government supporting victims of insecurity, especially in terms of education?

We introduced the “No Roof Education Policy” in Zurmi. Currently, about 20 schools operate under this initiative. Even where school structures have been destroyed by bandits, learning continues under trees or temporary shelters. Education must not stop. While the governor works to rebuild infrastructure, children continue their education.

How prepared are you for the political realignment ahead of 2027?

All 14 local government areas in Zamfara State are united in their support for Governor Dauda Lawal. We trust his leadership, ability, and commitment to improving the state. As grassroots political structures, local governments play a vital role, and we are fully committed to supporting him in his political journey.