Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has restated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and other development challenges that have bedevilled the state since its creation three decades ago.

Mr Lawal, who acknowledged the insecurity bedevilling the state, spoke during the state’s 30th anniversary and Nigeria’s 66th Independence celebration.

He assured that his government was confronting each challenge head-on.

The governor highlighted what he described as progress recorded in key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, security, education and human capital development.

According to him, the twin celebrations gave Zamfara an opportunity to reflect on its achievements, confront its security challenges, and look ahead to the next phase of the state’s development.

Before arriving at the celebration venue, Mr Lawal inaugurated the first commercial flight at Gusau International Airport.

The commercial flight, operated by XEJet Limited, arrived from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with several passengers on board.

Mr Lawal, who later arrived at the venue of the 30th anniversary and Nigeria’s 66th Independence celebration, inspected an elaborate parade by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as part of activities marking the historic occasion.

Students, youths and different groups participated in a colourful ceremonial parade.

The event also witnessed a series of speeches and prayers led by the state’s former military administrator, Col. Jibrin Bala Yakubu (rtd); first civilian governor, Sani Yerima; former Governor Mahmud Shinkafi; and serving and former deputy governors of the state, among others.

The celebration was attended by heads of security agencies, traditional rulers and other dignitaries, who offered prayers for peace, security and greater economic development in Zamfara.

(NAN)