Zamfara pledges support to UNDP, Northwest Governors’ Forum

From John Bassey, Gusau

The Zamfara State government has promised ongoing support for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Northwest Governors’ Forum. This partnership aims to tackle development challenges and drive positive regional change to improve citizens’ lives.

Governor Dauda Lawal made this commitment while hosting the Northwest Governors’ Forum and UNDP team at the Government House in Gusau. He stated that addressing Zamfara’s challenges could resolve nearly half of the Northwest’s problems. “This is why my administration is focused on tackling the many issues facing the state,” he said.

The Northwest faces banditry, high numbers of out-of-school children, youth unemployment, poverty, and a struggling economy. Lawal noted, “These challenges require the collaborative efforts of the seven Northwest states if they must be tackled.” He explained that the Northwest Governors’ Forum partnered with UNDP to study these issues and provide recommendations.

Led by the Forum’s Director General, Maryam Yahaya, the team visited Zamfara to engage with commissioners, stakeholders, farmers, traditional rulers, youths, and women’s groups. Yahaya said they had already visited five states in the region.

The Northwest Governors’ Forum seeks to promote peace, cooperation, and economic stability. This collaboration with UNDP underscores the region’s commitment to addressing its challenges.