Suspend State Creation For Now, Gov Lawal Tells FG

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has advised the Federal Government to temporarily halt the creation of new states, asserting that the focus should be on strengthening existing ones first. This call for caution comes as the nation is undergoing a constitutional review process that has seen numerous proposals for new states from various regions.

Governor Lawal's stance was articulated during his address to media executives in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, marking the 30th anniversary of the state's establishment in 1996.

Zamfara was carved out of the former Sokoto State in October 1996 under the military regime led by General Sani Abacha, with Gusau designated as its capital. Over the past three decades, the state has forged its own administrative and economic identity, with significant contributions from agriculture and solid minerals. However, Governor Lawal acknowledged that the current financial constraints faced by many states have made it increasingly difficult to sustain such expansion.

Governor Lawal pointed out that despite the historical benefits of state creation, such as fostering closer government-proximity to communities and stimulating employment and urban development, the sustainability of these new states must be reassessed. He emphasized that the existing 36 states now grapple with severe financial difficulties, which should be addressed before contemplating further fragmentation.

Lawal maintained that before any new state creation, the 36 states must become financially and administratively viable.

He underscored the need for policymakers to prioritize the effectiveness of the existing states, arguing that their development should be a primary concern. Lawal highlighted the progress made in Zamfara since its creation, including improvements in employment, urban development, and other sectors, attributing these achievements to effective governance and strategic leadership.

His administration's "Rescue Mission" has been guided by six key priorities: security, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and human development. According to Governor Lawal, progress on these fronts has reached between 60 to 70 percent.

Furthermore, Governor Lawal highlighted Zamfara's growing prominence in Nigeria due to its focus on developing its solid mineral resources, particularly critical minerals. He noted that the state has become a leader in this sector, with substantial data supporting its status. By concentrating on enhancing infrastructure and creating a more favorable investment climate, Governor Lawal aims to reposition Zamfara and alter the public's perception of the state.

Despite contributions to state revenue, Zamfara still relies heavily on federal transfers, underscoring the need for economic self-sufficiency through robust development strategies.