Concerned citizens of Zamfara North Senatorial District commended former Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle on Saturday, praising his achievements during his 2019-2023 tenure.
Matawalle, now the Minister of State for Defense, was recognized for his administration’s focus on infrastructure, security, and public services, which residents say significantly advanced Zamfara’s development.
At a press briefing in Kaura Namoda, community representative Kasimu Lauwali expressed appreciation for Matawalle’s transformative projects.
“In all honesty, we miss former Governor Matawalle for his remarkable contributions, especially within just a year of taking office,” Lauwali said.
He said among Matawalle’s standout accomplishments was his commitment to infrastructure. His administration rehabilitated the crucial Kauran Namoda-Talatar Mafara-Tudun-Wada Gusau road and invested over 203 million Naira to enhance water systems across Zamfara.
“Additionally, more than 510 million Naira was spent on water treatment chemicals, and extensive renovations were completed on the Zamfara State House of Assembly, costing over 842 million Naira.
“In healthcare, Matawalle prioritized the supply of essential hospital equipment, investing around 389 million Naira. His administration also improved state facilities, including renovating the Gusau Government House and constructing a governor’s lodge in Kaduna at 784 million Naira, which aimed to reduce official travel expenses.
“Local media received substantial support under Matawalle, with over 170 million Naira allocated for Gold City FM and 253 million Naira invested in digital equipment for the state’s Legacy Newspaper.
“Infrastructure projects expanded road access, including the Kwaiwa Lamba-Gidan Gogo route, costing 593 million Naira.
“Matawalle’s supporters also highlighted his administration’s success in enhancing security, noting a nine-month period of relative calm without loss of life across Zamfara.
“His focus on key sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and information, left a lasting impact, with all reported projects completed by May 2023.
“In contrast, critics have voiced concerns over the current Governor Dauda Lawal’s approach, accusing him of neglecting ongoing projects and lacking the urgency demonstrated under Matawalle’s administration.”