Matawalle | Achievements

1. Establishment of Special Committees

Recognizing the need for a thorough assessment of the state’s affairs, Governor Matawalle prioritized the establishment of special committees tasked with evaluating critical areas of governance. These committees were instrumental in diagnosing existing challenges, formulating practical recommendations, and guiding the administration in effective decision-making. Some of the key committees established include:

The Transition Committee, chaired by Malam Ibrahim Wakkala Muhammad Liman, to ensure a smooth transfer of power and evaluate the governance structure left by the previous administration.
The Government Assets Compilation Committee, tasked with auditing and documenting all state-owned assets to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Committee to Identify the Causes of Insecurity in Zamfara and How to Address It, led by former Inspector General of Police, Muhammad Dahiru Abubakar, focusing on strategies to combat banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes.
The Committee to Improve Government Operations and Restructure Ministries, aimed at enhancing efficiency, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, and fostering a more responsive administration.
The Government Planning and Restructuring Committee, under the leadership of Dr. Jaluddin Maradun, dedicated to policy formulation and ensuring long-term developmental sustainability.
The Committee to Enhance the Implementation of Islamic Law in Zamfara, ensuring that Shari’ah principles are properly integrated into governance while respecting the rights and values of all citizens.
The Salary Review Committee, headed by Ambassador Bashir Yuguda Gusau, responsible for reviewing civil service remuneration and addressing wage-related disputes.
The Committee on Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara, to assess the institution’s progress, challenges, and the necessary steps for its development.
The Committee to Evaluate the Status of Zamfara’s Government-Sponsored Students Abroad, ensuring accountability in scholarship disbursements and student welfare.

These committees were not mere formalities; they were strategic tools created to drive reforms, restore order, and ensure accountability. Given that Governor Matawalle inherited the 2019 budget formulated by the previous government, his administration was legally bound to operate within its provisions. However, any significant policy shifts required approval from the State House of Assembly, ensuring that governance remained transparent and law-abiding.

2. Addressing Insecurity in Zamfara

The security crisis that gripped Zamfara State before the emergence of Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle requires little elaboration—it was a period of fear, uncertainty, and despair. The state had become a battleground for banditry, kidnappings, and senseless violence, all exacerbated by the neglect and ineffective policies of the previous administration. Communities lived in constant terror, with lives lost, families torn apart, and properties destroyed. Farmers abandoned their fields, businesses crumbled, and entire villages were displaced as insecurity tightened its grip on the state.
By the mercy of Allah, the tides began to turn with the inauguration of Governor Matawalle, whose leadership ignited a renewed sense of hope. Understanding the urgency of the situation, he made security his topmost priority, recognizing that without peace, no meaningful development could take place.

A. Strategic Approach to Security

Governor Matawalle wasted no time in tackling the security menace. Within his first few days in office, he engaged key stakeholders at both the state and national levels to craft a comprehensive and sustainable solution.
His first major step was to seek federal intervention. He embarked on a strategic diplomatic mission to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari, formally requesting federal support in addressing Zamfara’s worsening security situation.
Understanding that security is a collaborative effort, he also engaged directly with top security chiefs, seeking their expertise on effective countermeasures. Among the high-ranking officials he met were:

Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu
Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Yusuf Buratai
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadik Abubakar

Governor Matawalle understood that winning the war against insecurity required a multi-faceted approach, involving not only federal forces but also state security apparatus and local intelligence networks. Prior to his high-level federal engagements, he had already convened critical meetings with:

The Zamfara State Commissioner of Police
The State Security Service (SSS) Commander
The Army Commandant in Zamfara
Traditional rulers and community leaders
Local vigilante groups

B. Presidential Support and Federal Government Commitment

Following his security engagements, Governor Matawalle secured a special audience with President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. During this crucial meeting, both leaders expressed strong support for his security initiatives, pledging federal backing to restore peace to Zamfara.

C. Peace and Reconciliation Initiatives

In every endeavor, pure intentions and divine guidance play a crucial role in achieving success. The Matawalle administration, in its solid commitment to restoring peace in Zamfara, sought divine intervention and expert advice to navigate the complex and long-standing security crisis. After thorough consultations with security experts, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders, Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle concluded that a military approach alone would not be enough to resolve the conflict. Instead, a strategic peace dialogue with the armed groups was deemed necessary—an approach anchored in the hope that through Allah’s mercy, peace could be restored.

Collaboration with Security Agencies

Understanding that a peace and reconciliation process would require strong institutional backing, Governor Matawalle first secured the full cooperation of the security forces in the state. This included the Nigerian Police Force, the State Security Service (SSS), and the Nigerian Army, all of whom played an advisory and enforcement role in the peace initiative.

Gaining Support from Other Groups

With security agencies on board, Governor Matawalle took a crucial next step—engaging the key groups directly involved in the conflict. These included:

Fulani Herders – often blamed for banditry and attacks.
Vigilante Groups (Sa-Kai)

On Wednesday, July 3, 2019, Governor Matawalle personally led a historic peace and reconciliation meeting between these groups at the Taula Hotel Conference Hall in Gusau, the state capital. The primary objective of this dialogue was to listen to both sides, understand the root causes of the conflict, and identify practical solutions to end the violence.

D. Reasons for the Reconciliation Efforts

Governor Matawalle’s first term in office has been marked by formidable challenges and remarkable achievements. Through his proactive approach to security, socio-economic development, and peacebuilding, he has laid a strong foundation for a brighter future for Zamfara State.
One of the defining aspects of his administration has been its focus on reconciliation and dialogue. Recognizing that unity is essential for progress, Governor Matawalle has made concerted efforts to bring together diverse stakeholders, including traditional leaders, political figures, community groups, and security agencies.
The Governor’s reconciliation efforts stem from several key motivations:

Peace and Stability: By fostering dialogue and understanding, his administration has significantly reduced communal tensions and incidences of violence.
Inclusive Governance: Engaging all stakeholders ensures that diverse perspectives are considered in policymaking, leading to more comprehensive solutions.
Economic Recovery: A peaceful environment is critical for attracting investments and boosting economic activities.

3. Addressing Socio-Economic Issues

Beyond security concerns, Governor Matawalle’s administration recognized that true peace is only possible when the people’s socio-economic well-being is secured. As such, his government implemented a series of transformative policies aimed at education, healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture, which collectively improved the standard of living in Zamfara State.

Educational Reforms

Believing that education is the bedrock of a prosperous society, Governor Matawalle prioritized reforms to expand access to quality education, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Key achievements included:

Construction and renovation of schools, ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.
Provision of essential learning materials, including textbooks, digital learning tools, and school supplies.
Scholarship programs for students in higher institutions, enabling more youths to pursue their academic dreams.
Integration of modern technology into the education system, preparing students for a more competitive future.

By investing in education, the government aimed to empower the younger generation with knowledge and skills, reducing their vulnerability to crime and radicalization.

Healthcare Improvements

Recognizing that a healthy population is essential for development, the Matawalle administration made substantial investments in the healthcare sector, ensuring that:

Primary healthcare centers were upgraded and fully equipped to cater to both urban and rural populations.
Essential medical supplies were consistently available, preventing shortages that could compromise healthcare delivery.
Healthcare workers received competitive remuneration and continuous training, improving the quality of medical services.
Public awareness campaigns on hygiene, preventive healthcare, and vaccination programs were intensified, reducing the prevalence of preventable diseases.

hese healthcare initiatives greatly enhanced access to quality medical care, improving the overall well-being of Zamfara’s residents.

Infrastructure Development

A modern and functional infrastructure network is a critical driver of economic progress. Governor Matawalle prioritized massive infrastructural projects, including:

Expansion and rehabilitation of roads and bridges, facilitating better movement of goods and services.
Upgrading public utilities, ensuring reliable access to clean water, electricity, and sanitation.
Rural electrification projects, connecting remote communities to the national power grid and fostering economic development.

These projects not only improved the daily lives of citizens but also stimulated investment and business opportunities, further driving economic growth.

Agriculture and Rural Development

As the backbone of Zamfara’s economy, the agricultural sector received strategic interventions aimed at boosting productivity and enhancing food security. The government’s efforts included:

Providing farmers with access to fertilizers, seeds, and modern farming equipment, increasing agricultural yields
Initiating large-scale irrigation projects, ensuring year-round farming and mitigating the effects of seasonal droughts.
Facilitating financial support and training programs for rural farmers, enabling them to adopt more efficient and profitable agricultural practices.

By revitalizing agriculture and rural industries, the administration strengthened Zamfara’s economic foundation, creating sustainable livelihoods for thousands of residents.

4. Zamfara Social Intervention Programme (Z-SIP)

The Zamfara Social Intervention Programme (Z-SIP) is a government initiative aimed at empowering youth by providing them with a monthly financial stipend to support their livelihood. The program is designed to alleviate poverty, reduce unemployment, and promote self-sufficiency among young people in Zamfara State.

Key Features of Z-SIP:

Monthly Financial Support: Beneficiaries receive a fixed stipend every month to help them meet their basic needs.
Eligibility-Based Assistance: Participants must meet specific criteria, such as being unemployed, engaging in skill acquisition programs, or contributing to community development initiatives.
Skills Development & Entrepreneurship: The program integrates training in vocational skills, business development, and financial literacy to encourage self-reliance.
Promoting Good Well-Being: The initiative ensures that beneficiaries use the funds effectively for personal growth, health, and productivity.
Youth Empowerment & Economic Growth: By supporting young people financially, Z-SIP fosters entrepreneurship and innovation, reducing dependence on government aid.

This proactive approach not only provides immediate relief but also equips youth with the tools needed for long-term economic stability and development in Zamfara State.

5. Looking Ahead: The Vision for Zamfara's Future

Key areas of focus include:

Continued Investment in Human Capital

Governor Matawalle understands that a well-educated, healthy, and skilled population is essential for driving sustainable development. His administration will maintain its emphasis on:

Education: Expanding access to quality education by constructing and rehabilitating schools, recruiting qualified teachers, and providing learning materials.
Healthcare: Upgrading healthcare facilities, ensuring the availability of essential medicines, and investing in community health programs.
Vocational Training: Empowering youth through skill acquisition programs and entrepreneurial support to enhance their employability and self-sufficiency.

“The future of Zamfara depends on the potential of our young people. We must equip them with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.” Governor Matawalle emphasized.

Strengthening the Rule of Law

To create a society where justice prevails, the Governor aims to further strengthen the legal framework of the state. This includes:

Enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies through modern training and better equipment.
Expanding access to justice by establishing more courts and legal aid centers.
Promoting accountability and transparency in governance to uphold the rule of law.

These efforts are expected to foster an environment where citizens feel safe, and businesses can thrive without fear of lawlessness.

Economic Diversification and Industrial Growth

Reducing Zamfara’s dependence on agriculture is a strategic priority for Governor Matawalle. His administration plans to:

Mining: Capitalize on Zamfara’s rich mineral deposits by attracting investors and formalizing artisanal mining activities.
Tourism: Develop cultural and ecological tourism attractions, including heritage sites, to boost economic activity.
Technology: Establish technology hubs to foster innovation and digital entrepreneurship.
Agriculture: Modernize farming practices by introducing smart agricultural technologies and expanding irrigation systems.

These initiatives are aimed at creating job opportunities, stimulating economic growth, and increasing internally generated revenue.

Regional Integration and Collaboration

Governor Matawalle recognizes the importance of fostering strong relationships with neighboring states, including Sokoto, Katsina, and Kebbi, to tackle shared challenges.

Security Cooperation: Strengthening joint security efforts to combat banditry and other forms of criminality.
Economic Partnerships: Promoting trade and investment through inter-state infrastructure projects.
Resource Sharing: Collaborating on initiatives for water management, agricultural development, and environmental protection.

By promoting regional cooperation, Zamfara can leverage its strategic position to drive development and maintain peace across the northwest region.