Tackling insecurity in Zamfara key to ending banditry nationwide – Gov Lawal

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has said that solving banditry in the state could help address the wider security crisis across Nigeria.

He made the comment while hosting the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, at the Government House in Gusau.

Lawal said he believes the Nigerian military has what it takes to defeat the criminals.
“As leaders, we must do everything we can to show that we are responsible leaders, so that people can live in peace,” he said.
“I don’t believe that these criminals are stronger than our troops; it is not possible. We only have challenges to address.”

The governor explained that his administration has been supporting the military, including providing operational vehicles to boost their work.

He stressed that without security, development efforts would not benefit the people.
“Whatever we do, if there is no security, it is of no benefit to the people. As a government, we need the military’s cooperation to address this menace,” he added.

Lawal also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continued support, but noted that more assistance is still needed.
“We are indeed doing a lot in terms of security, because that is our top priority as a government. I am ever ready to support the military and other security agencies,” he said.

In his remarks, General Oluyede praised the governor for what he described as uncommon support for Operation Fansan Yamma in the state.
He said the partnership between the state government and the military is helping efforts to improve security.

“I am here today to commend His Excellency the Governor for the operation Fansan Yamma, which is actually uncommon. I want to thank you particularly for that,” he said.

The defence chief also thanked the people of Zamfara for their cooperation and called for continued teamwork to tackle insecurity.
“With people like Governor Lawal, we can address these challenges,” he said, adding that he had visited troops in the state, discussed their challenges, and taken note of issues that require further action.