The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for equipping troops in Zamfara State with armoured personnel carriers, surveillance drones, and other operational equipment.
The distribution ceremony took place at the Government House, Gusau, where Governor Lawal formally handed over 25 advanced Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to security forces deployed across the state.
According to the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the APCs are designed to enhance troop protection during high-risk operations, while the newly procured 80-meter endurance surveillance drones can operate continuously for eight hours and cover up to 50 kilometres, improving intelligence and monitoring capabilities.
In his address, Governor Lawal highlighted the importance of the federal-state collaboration in addressing the state’s long-standing security challenges.
“For years, Zamfara State faced a security crisis disrupting life. Rural areas were unstable, farmers were uncertain, and movement along key roads required caution. Markets underperformed, affecting productivity, income, and confidence,” he said.
The governor noted that under the state’s Rescue Mission, security responses have shifted from fragmented to structured reforms, including the establishment of the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund and the operationalisation of Homegrown Community Protection Guards, providing vehicles, motorcycles, and improved coordination with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies.
Lawal further detailed that 150 Hilux vehicles, 20 Toyota Buffaloes (10 armoured, 10 soft-body), and over 600 specialised motorcycles have been distributed to security agencies to enhance rapid response capabilities across challenging terrain. The integration of drones is expected to further improve aerial surveillance, reconnaissance, and real-time decision-making.
He urged military commanders to deploy the assets strategically and maintain operational discipline, stressing that professional stewardship is key to long-term effectiveness.
Earlier, General Musa applauded Governor Lawal’s initiative, noting that the substantial investment in security sends a strong signal to criminals. “The protection of lives and properties rises above party lines and political differences. The governor’s commitment to public safety is very distinct and determined. If we continue like this, Zamfara will look like Dubai,” he said.
The Defence Minister described the governor’s efforts as a model for subnational leadership, praising the timely and fully funded procurement of the vehicles and equipment.
Spokesperson Sulaiman Bala Idris said the equipment reflects the state government’s dedication to ensuring the safety of troops and citizens alike.