Zamfara Govt distributes 2,300 vehicles, flags off major road, solar power projects

The Zamfara State Government has launched a socio-economic intervention programme across multiple sectors, initiating massive road constructions, rural electrification, and a grassroots empowerment scheme.

Governor Dauda Lawal distributed 300 vehicles and 2,000 motorcycles to various groups at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau on Thursday. The initiative is designed to facilitate mobility, stimulate the local economy, and support citizens dedicated to the political development of the state.

“Let me emphasise here that empowerment goes beyond rhetoric, it requires providing our people and grassroots organisations with the practical tools needed to be self-reliant, restore dignity, and deliver the real dividends of democracy,” the governor stated.

The state government also collaborated with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to commence the construction of 37 solar mini-grids. The project will generate 18.8 megawatts-peak of solar capacity, providing electricity to 125,106 households across seven local government areas, including Gusau, Tsafe, and Shinkafi.

During the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, the governor unveiled the Zamfara State Electricity Policy to attract private sector investment. The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, and REA Managing Director, Dr Abba Aliyu, commended the decentralised approach to electricity market development.

Governor Lawal also flagged off the construction of strategic road networks connecting Gusau, Bungudu, Kaura Namoda, and Birnin Magaji local government areas. The massive civil works include the 53-kilometre Gusau to Nasarawa Godel road awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited, with an 18-month completion timeline.

Other affected routes include the Tashar Abu-Bingi road and the Kwatarkwashi-Mada road, which was awarded to Zhongcheng Construction Nigeria Limited. The projects feature the construction of three bridges and extensive erosion control measures.

Meanwhile, to boost internally generated revenue, the state government recruited 75 new technical staff for the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service (ZIRS). The successful candidates were selected from 484 applicants following rigorous examinations in tax administration, legal services, and information technology.

In the health sector, the state took delivery of five tricycle ambulances donated by the Federal Ministry of Health through the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, received the vehicles and confirmed they will be deployed to rural communities to enhance emergency maternal and newborn healthcare.

She added that the state’s 24-hour emergency call centre is currently undergoing upgrades to ensure prompt responses to medical distress calls.