Zamfara State: From Uncertainty to Progress — A Reflection on Governance, Reform, and Renewal
By Hassan Ahmad
28th April 2026
My recent visit to Gusau, the Zamfara State capital—after many years away, during which I spent a few days quietly observing developments and engaging with residents—provided a rare opportunity to reflect on the transformation underway in the state since May 29th, 2023.
The contrast between the Zamfara of the recent past and what is gradually emerging today is both visible and instructive.
Prior to 2023, the narrative of Zamfara was largely defined by insecurity, weakened infrastructure, and a capital city struggling to reflect the dignity of a state with immense human and natural resources. Gusau, in particular, bore the marks of neglect—roads in disrepair, limited urban planning, and public spaces that lacked both structure and appeal. Economic activity was constrained, not only by security concerns but also by the absence of enabling infrastructure.
Today, while challenges remain, there is a discernible shift—one that reflects a government making deliberate efforts to change both perception and reality.
Urban Renewal and City Beautification
One of the most immediate changes observable in Gusau is the renewed attention to urban development and beautification. Key roads within the capital are undergoing rehabilitation, while others have already been improved, easing movement and enhancing connectivity across neighborhoods.
Public spaces that were once overlooked are gradually being redefined. The introduction of better road layouts, drainage improvements, and environmental sanitation efforts is contributing to a cleaner and more organized city. Street-level transformations—such as clearer road markings, improved accessibility, and more coordinated urban structure—may appear modest in isolation, but collectively they signal a capital city finding its direction.
Compared to the pre-2023 period, where urban planning was largely reactive, there is now a growing sense of intentionality in how Gusau is being shaped.
Road Infrastructure and Connectivity
Infrastructure development, particularly in road construction and rehabilitation, stands out as a central pillar of the administration’s efforts. Across key arteries within the state capital and extending into other parts of the state, road projects are gradually improving connectivity between communities.
Previously, many of these routes were either dilapidated or seasonally inaccessible, affecting trade, agriculture, and social interaction. Today, ongoing rehabilitation efforts are beginning to reverse that trend. Improved road networks are facilitating the movement of goods and people, supporting farmers, traders, and small businesses.
This shift is critical in a state like Zamfara, where agriculture remains a backbone of the local economy. Better roads mean reduced post-harvest losses, improved market access, and increased economic confidence.
Security: From Despair to Structured Response
Security remains the most complex challenge facing Zamfara State. However, what has changed since 2023 is not the complete resolution of the crisis, but the seriousness and structure of the response.
There is now clearer collaboration between state authorities, federal security agencies, and local community structures. While the situation is still evolving, residents increasingly speak of a more coordinated effort to reclaim stability. Markets that were once deserted in some areas are gradually returning to life, and communities are beginning to rebuild confidence.
This represents a significant shift from the earlier atmosphere of uncertainty and limited coordination.
Social Infrastructure and Human Development
Beyond physical infrastructure, there are ongoing interventions in education, healthcare, and water supply. Schools and health facilities, though still in need of expansion and upgrading, are receiving increased attention.
The difference lies in intent and direction. Where gaps once persisted with little response, there is now a visible attempt to address them systematically. Water projects, healthcare access, and educational support programs are gradually being scaled to meet the needs of the population.
These are not yet perfect outcomes—but they are important steps toward rebuilding the social contract between government and citizens.
Youth Engagement and Economic Inclusion
Youth development has also gained prominence. Through targeted programs in skills acquisition, sports, and small-scale enterprise support, young people are being drawn into more productive engagement.
Before 2023, limited structured opportunities contributed to frustration and vulnerability among the youth population. Today, while more needs to be done, there is at least a policy direction that recognizes youth as partners in development rather than passive observers.
The long-term success of these initiatives will depend on how well they are integrated into broader economic strategies—particularly in agriculture, trade, and entrepreneurship.
Governance and Public Trust
Perhaps one of the less visible but equally important changes is in governance style. There is an emerging culture of openness, engagement, and administrative responsiveness. In a state where trust in public institutions had been significantly eroded, this shift is both necessary and commendable.
Prudence in resource management and a willingness to be accountable are gradually strengthening institutional credibility. Governance is becoming less distant and more relatable to the everyday citizen.
A Message of Appreciation
It is within this context that I extend my sincere appreciation to His Excellency for the commitment, focus, and sense of responsibility demonstrated thus far.
On behalf of Unity Heritage Publications, we recognize that leadership in a state like Zamfara requires not only vision but courage—the courage to confront deep-rooted challenges and the discipline to pursue gradual but meaningful reform.
The progress recorded since May 2023 may not yet represent a complete transformation, but it undeniably reflects a state moving in the right direction.
The Road Ahead
As Zamfara continues on this path, the next phase must emphasize consolidation and scale. The gains in urban renewal, infrastructure, and governance should be expanded, deepened, and sustained.
Security efforts must continue to evolve, infrastructure projects must reach more communities, and social investments must translate into measurable improvements in living standards.
Zamfara has the potential to move from recovery to resilience—and from resilience to prosperity.
My time in Gusau left me convinced that the foundations for this transition are being carefully laid.
What is required now is continuity, strategic execution, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring that the dividends of governance reach every citizen, in every corner of the state.
The people of Zamfara deserve nothing less.
2026-05-01
