Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has expressed disappointment over the state's failure to generate any revenue from its abundant solid mineral resources, describing the situation as "unfortunate."

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today, Governor Lawal lamented that despite Zamfara's mineral wealth, the state receives no financial benefits from these resources.

"As we speak now, there is no single revenue as far as solid minerals are concerned that is coming to Zamfara State, which is unfortunate," the governor stated.

However, Lawal welcomed the Federal Government's recent decision to lift the ban on mining activities in the state, describing it as a crucial step toward attracting private sector investment into Zamfara's dormant minerals sector.

"I am happy now that the Federal Government has lifted the ban on solid minerals. Just last month, we had a meeting with private sector investors interested in Zamfara State," he revealed.

The governor outlined his administration's strategy to leverage these resources for economic growth: "We are trying to bring the private sector to invest in solid minerals in collaboration with the state government and Federal Government. If that works out well, it means additional revenue for Zamfara State as well as the Federal Government."

With proper investment and management of its mineral resources, Governor Lawal expressed confidence that Zamfara could achieve financial independence. "By the time we do that, I don't think we will be relying on FAAC anymore. We will be more than comfortable to develop Zamfara State and move the state forward," he stated.

Security Improvements

Beyond economic development, the governor also addressed security concerns that have long plagued the mineral-rich state. He highlighted progress in stabilizing Zamfara's internal security environment through the establishment of Community Protection Guards across all local government areas.

These local units, according to Lawal, are complementing the efforts of conventional security agencies in combating criminal groups and banditry in the region.

The governor reaffirmed his administration's firm stance against negotiating with bandits while maintaining openness to unconditional surrenders. "We are not negotiating with insurgents, but if anyone wants to surrender unconditionally, we are ready to receive them," he emphasized.

Zamfara State, known for its significant deposits of gold and other valuable minerals, has struggled with illegal mining activities and insecurity for years, hampering its ability to harness these resources for development.