Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has appointed a former Inspector General of Police, IGP, MD Abubakar, as the board chairman of the newly established security trust fund in the state.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 21-member board on Wednesday, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ending the spate of banditry and other criminal activities in the state.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, in a statement issued in Gusau, said that the fund was created to gather resources and aid the government’s efforts in tackling the ongoing insecurity in the state.
The governor reminded the board members of the need to mobilise funds to support the government’s efforts in addressing the persistent challenge of insecurity and related issues in our dear state.
“The decision to establish the Trust Fund was motivated by the recognition that the security situation in the state, along with its attendant consequences, has become a matter of grave concern not only to the government and citizens of Zamfara State but also to the entire nation.
“Over the years, the criminal activities have led to the tragic loss of thousands of lives and the destruction of billions of naira worth of means of livelihood in the state.
“Moreover, it has severely weakened our economy, causing significant repercussions in vital sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and commerce.
“Consequently, it is evident that we have to widen our horizons in the quest for viable and enduring solutions to the issue,” he said.
The governor further said that to guarantee prudence and effectiveness in discharging the board’s duties and responsibilities, he meticulously appointed individuals with a proven track record of integrity.
“Many of them come from backgrounds in security with broad experience in the public and private sectors. The board comprises MD Abubakar, Mni, CFR Rtd Inspector General of Police as chairman.
“Board members are the Emir of Anka, Col Bala Mande (Rtd), Brig. Gen. Abdulkadir Gummi, Brig. Gen. L.B. Mohammed, Ambassador Bello Anka, Mrs Lubnah Muhammad Gusau, Faruku Sambo Gusau, State Chairman, Local Security Outfit, Rep. of Ministry of Justice, Rep. of Ministry for Internal Security, Rep. of Ministry of Finance, Rep. Min. for Local Govt & Chieftaincy Affairs, Rep. of State Bureau for Public Procurement.
“Others are Rep. of Nigeria Police Force, Rep. of Armed Forces, Rep. of Department of State Service, Rep. of Nig. Security and Civil Defence Corps, Rep. of Religious Institution, Abubakar Shehu, and Dr. Hamza Muhammad, and Administrative Secretary.
In his remarks, Mr Abubakar urged the people of Zamfara to work together to overcome security challenges.
“We are doing this for the future of Zamfara State. We must all come together to support this fund with the little we can. There is no time for sleeping now; we have to wake up.
“I want to reassure you about our commitment; we shall do our best regarding safety and security,” he said.
