UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed has declared Zamfara State open for development, signalling the United Nations’ readiness to partner with the state government in driving sustainable growth.
Mohammed made the statement during a high-level visit to Zamfara on Thursday, leading a UN delegation on an on-the-spot assessment of development efforts and security conditions in parts of the state, including Maru Local Government Area. The visit, detailed in a statement by Governor Dauda Lawal’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, brought together heads of several UN agencies, including the UNDP, UNODC, UNICEF, IOM, UNHCR, UNAIDS, and UNFPA country representatives.
During a multi-sectoral briefing, Governor Lawal outlined his administration’s Six-Point Rescue Agenda, aimed at stabilising the state, rebuilding critical sectors, and fostering inclusive and sustainable development. He described Zamfara as being at a “turning point,” noting that the state, with a population of about 5.3 million people, relies heavily on agriculture, with over 80 per cent of residents engaged in farming.
Responding, Mohammed said the state government’s presentations provided a clear basis for collaboration. “This is enough for us to be able to partner,” she said, stressing that peace and stability remain critical to attracting investment.
“Investors want an enabling environment. Peace is what you need today for people to come. The Zamfara narrative focuses on conflict related to solid minerals, and this needs to change,” she added.
The UN deputy chief said her visit was aimed at drawing global attention to local-level challenges and opportunities, particularly in regions where governance structures and resources are limited. “I am happy to be here because I want to show the world that we should pay attention to what is happening at the local level—where people are most vulnerable and resources are scarce,” she said.
Mohammed also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development, particularly road construction projects, as a sign of improving accessibility and economic prospects. “Zamfara State is accessible today, and it will be even more accessible when ongoing road projects are completed. This will revive businesses and markets and, hopefully, we will see more peace,” she said.
She further pointed to the state’s economic potential, particularly in mining and agriculture, while commending the state leadership for its willingness to strengthen institutions and pursue partnerships. “I see the mining potential, the markets, and the demand. I also see leadership that is ready to build the necessary frameworks and partnerships to get the job done,” Mohammed stated.
She emphasised that development efforts would require collective responsibility, noting that progress cannot be driven by the government alone. “There is a lot of hope and potential here. Everyone must play their role. The United Nations is willing to be a genuine partner to Zamfara State,” she added.
The visit marks a significant engagement between the UN and Zamfara State, as the government seeks to reposition the state from a history of insecurity and economic challenges toward a path of stability and development.
