The echoes of chalk and children’s voices may soon sound different across Zamfara’s public schools. In a bold move to revive an education system he once called “collapsed,” Governor Dauda Lawal has launched one of the largest single investments in instructional resources in the state’s history; the distribution of 408,137 teaching and learning materials.
“The Most Effective Way to Restore Zamfara Is to Invest in the Minds of Our People”
Speaking at the launch, Governor Lawal said, “The best way to develop the state is to invest in the education sector,” and reaffirmed his administration’s mission: “The most effective way to restore Zamfara is to invest in the minds of our people.”
He noted with pride: “Today, as part of this commitment, I am pleased to announce the distribution of 408,137 teaching and learning materials procured directly by the Zamfara State Government. This is one of the largest single investments in instructional resources our state has ever witnessed.”
According to him, “It reflects our conviction that teachers cannot succeed without the right tools, and pupils cannot learn without adequate materials.”
Partners Join Hands to Build a Brighter Future
The state government’s effort is being reinforced by national and international partners. “We acknowledge with gratitude the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) partnership, which has provided 77,609 teaching and learning materials to complement our state government’s initiative. Their contribution is a reminder that development is best achieved when governments at different levels work in synergy, united by the common good of the people,” Lawal said.
He also thanked UNICEF for donating 5,000 Climate Change and Education Early Warning Handbooks to equip children with environmental knowledge and adaptation skills amid global climate challenges.
Teachers, Parents and Community: The Human Side of Reform
While unveiling the materials, Governor Lawal turned to those who will make the biggest difference; educators and families. “I must commend our teachers because no investment in materials can substitute for the dedication of a teacher who inspires students daily. These resources will be meaningful only if effectively used by passionate educators,” he said.
He called on parents and guardians to share responsibility: “Education starts at home, where discipline and guidance lay the groundwork for success. Parents should regularly visit schools to ensure their children attend and perform well academically.”
In his vote of thanks, Professor Nasiru Anka, Executive Chairman of Zamfara State’s Universal Basic Education Board, lauded the governor’s “relentless efforts to revive education” and urged both parents and teachers to stay committed.
Beyond Materials: Investing in Girls and Communities
This drive follows the July launch of a ₦322 million conditional cash transfer programme for 8,225 secondary school girls across Zamfara’s 14 local government areas. Each beneficiary received an initial ₦40,000, with a further ₦60,000 per academic session to keep them in school. Lawal has also introduced a Community Revolving Fund to support grassroots environmental and economic projects in selected localities.
From Collapse to Renewal
With over 400,000 new resources in classrooms, cash transfers for vulnerable girls and support for local communities, Zamfara is beginning to turn a page. If teachers, parents and partners sustain the momentum, the “new dawn” Governor Lawal promised may become a lasting daylight for the state’s children.