Zamfara State, Nigeria — In an exclusive interview, Zamfara State’s Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Abdulmalik Gajam, sheds light on the state’s dire situation and the reforms being implemented by Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.
Upon taking office, the new administration inherited a state mired in crisis and underdevelopment. Gajam describes a lack of commitment from the previous government in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, despite Zamfara’s vast arable land. Insecurity, social protection, and strategic planning were also severely neglected.
Gajam reveals disturbing statistics reflecting the state’s poor performance in various sectors. Zamfara ranks low in economic output, business competitiveness, healthcare, education, and information and communications technology (ICT). Based on a 2022 scorecard of Nigerian states, the state’s overall ranking places it at the bottom, 36th out of 37.
The state’s debt profile is another pressing concern. Gajam discloses that this year alone, Zamfara is set to service debts amounting to over N30 billion, with more than N20 billion already paid. Despite the considerable borrowing, the Commissioner questions the lack of visible investments or infrastructure development.
Gajam points to significant deficiencies in transportation, healthcare, and education. He highlights the failure of the previous administration to pay the examination fees for secondary school students, resulting in a three-year setback for Zamfara’s youth. Additionally, the state lacks proper infrastructure, roads, access to clean water, and efficient energy sources.
The Commissioner also reveals that former Governor Bello Matawalle’s government allocated funds for an airport, but no construction work has been done, leaving the project incomplete.
Addressing accountability, Gajam emphasizes that a lack of accountability hampers progress and development. He contends that the absence of a clear development plan for the state over the past two decades underscores the need for accountability and proper governance.
In discussing the ongoing security crisis, Gajam accuses the previous administration of negotiating with bandits and providing them with resources. He decries the current state of insecurity in Zamfara and expresses the need for federal support to address the situation.
Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, since taking office, has initiated reforms, including restructuring ministries and agencies to enhance efficiency and reduce redundancy. Additionally, the government is committed to addressing the pressing issue of security by establishing a Security Trust Fund and seeks assistance from the Federal Government to restore peace in the state.
As Zamfara grapples with its past challenges, the state’s new administration strives to bring about essential reforms and provide a brighter future for its people.