Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has laid out an ambitious financial blueprint for the state's future, presenting a proposed budget of N861 billion for the 2026 fiscal year. The governor described the budget as a critical roadmap for the state's transformation and a firm declaration of its intent to rise stronger.
A Budget Heavily Tilted Towards Development
The budget proposal was formally presented to the Zamfara State House of Assembly in Gusau on December 4, 2025. A striking feature of the 2026 estimate is its overwhelming focus on development projects. A massive N714 billion, representing 83 per cent of the total budget, is earmarked for capital expenditure.
This leaves N147,279,945,000.00 for recurrent expenditure, which covers operational costs and accounts for the remaining 17 per cent. This distribution signals the administration's priority to drive tangible development across the state.
Governor Lawal's Vision: Stability and Growth
In his address, Governor Lawal reiterated that his government, elected on the promise of rescue, reform, and revival, has been working to restore public trust and rebuild critical sectors. He stated that the 2026 Budget of Stability and Growth represents the next phase in this journey.
"The people of Zamfara State, who once despaired under neglect, now see visible light, progress, accountability, and renewed direction," the Governor said. "It is not merely a financial plan, it is a political commitment to entrench stability in governance and accelerate the growth our citizens yearn for."
He explained that the budget is designed to deepen gains from the administration's Six-Point Rescue Agenda. The key pillars of this agenda include:
- Strengthening the state's security architecture.
- Modernising agriculture to ensure food security and prosperity.
- Upgrading the healthcare system for every community.
- Expanding access to quality education.
- Accelerating infrastructural renewal.
- Empowering youth, women, and vulnerable populations.
Governor Lawal emphasised that the proposal prioritises inclusive development to ensure no ward, village, or community is left behind.
Call for Collaboration and Political Will
The Governor concluded by stressing that the ambitious goals outlined in the budget, spanning from security and education to agriculture and infrastructure, cannot be achieved in isolation. He highlighted the necessity of political will, unwavering government commitment, and the patriotic cooperation of the State House of Assembly.
"Mr Speaker, the 2026 budget of Stability and Growth proposal reflects a politically strategic shift that aligns with the administration’s rescue agenda under my leadership," Governor Dauda Lawal added, calling for a united effort to realise the budget's objectives for the benefit of all Zamfara citizens.
