Bolatito Mercy
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has presented staffs of office and official vehicles to the state’s 19 emirs in a move aimed at strengthening traditional institutions and improving grassroots administration.
The presentation took place in Gusau, the state capital, as part of activities commemorating the 30th anniversary of Zamfara State.
The ceremony was attended by all 19 emirs, including some who were appointed before the current administration but received their formal coronation after Governor Lawal assumed office.
Speaking at the event, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, charged the traditional rulers to place the fear of God above all considerations in carrying out their responsibilities.
He urged the monarchs to uphold truth and fairness without fear or favour, emphasising that their ultimate loyalty should be to God.
The Sultan also drew attention to the deplorable condition of the Sokoto-Gusau Road, calling on the relevant authorities to urgently address the situation.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal described the presentation as an important milestone in the state’s history, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of traditional rulers to peacebuilding, security, cultural preservation and community development since the creation of Zamfara State in 1996.
The governor urged the emirs to perform their duties with wisdom, fairness, integrity and compassion, while maintaining close relationships with the communities under their leadership.
He also called on the monarchs to deepen cooperation with security agencies by providing reliable information, encouraging community participation and discouraging the protection or concealment of criminal elements, regardless of their identities or affiliations.
According to him, achieving sustainable peace requires consistent government intervention, effective security operations and the active cooperation of local communities.
Lawal further assured the traditional rulers that his administration would complete the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces across the state to improve their working conditions and reinforce the traditional institution.
As part of the government’s support, official vehicles were distributed to all 19 emirs to ease transportation, strengthen community engagement and improve coordination with government agencies.
He, however, cautioned the monarchs against using the vehicles for purposes outside their official responsibilities, urging them to ensure proper maintenance.
The governor concluded by calling for stronger cooperation between the emirates and the state government, encouraging the traditional rulers to support government policies and programmes at the grassroots while offering constructive advice and guidance.
