Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara on Saturday presented staff of office and official vehicles to the 19 emirs in the state as part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and grassroots administration.

The presentation formed part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of the creation of Zamfara State.

At the event, Mr Lawal said it was a significant milestone in the state’s history and governance.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of traditional institutions as partners in promoting peace, stability, and the state’s development.

He noted the important role of traditional institutions in areas of development since the creation of Zamfara in 1996 to date.

According to him, traditional institutions have continued to play vital roles in maintaining social order, preserving cultural values, and fostering harmonious relationships among communities.

Mr Lawal urged the emirs to discharge their responsibilities with fairness, wisdom, integrity and compassion.

He tasked the traditional rulers to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by providing credible information, mobilising community support, and discouraging the protection or concealment of criminal elements, regardless of their identities or affiliations.

Mr Lawal said insecurity remains a major challenge confronting the state, with its consequences reflected in disrupted farming activities, displacement of communities, loss of livelihoods, and hardship among families.

He emphasised his administration’s effort to restore agricultural activities and urged the emirs to protect access to farmlands.

Mr Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces across the state.

According to him, the initiative would strengthen traditional institutions and improve the working environment of traditional rulers.

Mr Lawal said the vehicles included 2025 and 2026 models of Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, GAC GS8 vehicles and EV Antics.

He assured that the state government would continue working with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to ensure residents can live, farm, trade, and pursue their livelihoods without fear.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, was among the dignitaries who attended the event marking the end of activities for the state’s 30th anniversary.

(NAN)