Governor Bello Matawalle says the decade-old security challenges have rmade education backward and crippled socio-economic activities in Zamfara.

The governor disclosed this at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony in Gusau on Sunday, adding that farming and other agribusinesses had suffered setbacks.

“Education also remains backward as many primary and secondary schools were forced to shut down due to the activities of bandits,” said Mr Matawalle.

He commended the efforts of the security agencies in the state and urged them to be more proactive in tackling the recurring security issues in the state.

Mr Matawalle reiterated his government’s commitment to giving all the necessary support to the Army and all the other security formations to ensure the return of normalcy to the state.

While condoling the families of the fallen heroes, he stressed the need for the public to assist security operatives with useful information to root out crimes in Zamfara.

The event witnessed special prayers, a 21-gun salute and the presentation of flowers as a symbol of respect for the fallen heroes.

(NAN)