The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede, has praised the leadership of Zamfara State under Governor Dauda Lawal, describing it as transformational. Olukoyede was the keynote speaker at the 30th anniversary celebration of Zamfara State, held at the Government House in Gusau. He stated that he conducted due diligence on the state and its governor before accepting the invitation, impressed by the drastic changes in the state over the past 3 years.
Olukoyede revealed that he doesn't usually attend political events, but made an exception for Zamfara State due to the remarkable progress he observed. He noticed the state's creation and its gradual development, despite being ranked among the country's less-developed states. However, the current outlook is shifting, with visible transformations in Gusau, including a new airport, newly paved roads, and street solar lights.
The EFCC Chairman attributed the state's progress to Governor Lawal's deliberate reform initiatives, which have positively impacted people's daily lives. He noted that Zamfara has steadily improved its performance in critical national examinations like NECO and WAEC. The state's public infrastructure is expanding, aligning with the theme of the anniversary celebration, 'accountability and responsibility in transformational government'.
Governor Lawal emphasized that the anniversary theme, 'Reflections, Achievements, and the Future', aims to examine the challenges that have shaped the state's experience and consider what leaders must do to secure a better future. He expressed pleasure that the commemoration has fostered serious intellectual engagement beyond ceremony, with papers addressing key government responsibilities.
Lawal highlighted his administration's Six-Point Rescue Agenda, which addresses the state's challenges, and the Zamfara State Development Plan 2025–2034, providing a long-term roadmap for the economy, infrastructure, social welfare, human capital, governance, and environmental sustainability. He appreciated the presenters, discussants, and the organizing committee for their contributions to the event.
The 30th anniversary celebration featured notable speakers, including Professor Tijjani Muhammad Bande, Professor Sulaiman Kura, Professor Murtala Rufai, and Professor Taofik Aminu. Olukoyede's presence was significant, given his office's ethical standards, and he commended Governor Lawal for his transparency and commitment to reform.
The event demonstrated Zamfara State's commitment to accountability and responsibility in governance, with a focus on transforming the state's experience and securing a better future. The state's progress, though gradual, is evident, and the leadership's efforts to address challenges and develop the state's infrastructure and human capital are noteworthy.
Key points
- - EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede praises Zamfara State's transformational leadership under Governor Dauda Lawal. - The state's progress is attributed to Governor Lawal's deliberate reform initiatives. - Zamfara State has steadily improved its performance in critical national examinations and expanded its public infrastructure.
