Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has been honoured with the Blueprint Newspapers’ 2026 Efficient Public Resource Management and Transparency Award.
The governor on Tuesday received the award at the 8th edition of Blueprint Newspapers’ Annual Public Lecture, Impact Series and Awards, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.
This year’s theme of the event was “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections.”
Delivering remarks at the event, Governor Lawal expressed his appreciation to the management of Blueprint Newspaper and vowed to do more in his administration’s efforts to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.
He said, “This award is a testament that the media and Nigerians outside Zamfara are witnessing the efforts my government is putting in our quest to make Zamfara great.
“In the three years of my government, we have recorded so many successes in the areas of security, education, health, economy, human capital, infrastructure, among others. And all these were achieved because we run a transparent government.”
The newspaper, among the reasons for the award, said Governor Lawal was recognised for his prudent management of public resources, fiscal accountability and efforts to promote transparent governance in Zamfara State.
The award, it said, emphasises responsible stewardship of public resources and the connection between fiscal discipline and inclusive development.
The Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar, said Governor Lawal “represents a blend of professional accomplishment and public service.”
He said the governor’s experience in diplomacy, banking and politics has equipped him with a broad understanding of governance, financial management and institutional leadership.
“As Governor of Zamfara State, he continues to pursue policies aimed at restoring stability, improving infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said.
He added that “his government has focused on improving financial discipline, strengthening public sector accountability and ensuring that public resources are directed toward projects capable of producing measurable benefits for the people of Zamfara State.”
“He has consistently emphasised responsible budgeting, efficient service delivery and prudent management of state finances as essential foundations for long-term development,” the newspaper said in the governor’s citation.
His administration, it said, has supported initiatives aimed at improving security operations, protecting rural communities and creating conditions that encourage displaced residents to return to their homes and resume productive activities.
Governor Lawal has placed considerable emphasis on rebuilding public infrastructure across Zamfara State, the newspaper said.
His government, it said, has undertaken road rehabilitation and construction projects, improved public buildings and invested in infrastructure designed to stimulate commerce, improve transportation and enhance access to essential public services.
These projects are intended to reconnect communities, facilitate economic activities and support balanced development across urban and rural areas, the citation stated.
It added that Governor Lawal’s administration also recognises education as a critical tool for reducing poverty and creating opportunities for future generations. He also pursued reforms to strengthen healthcare delivery throughout the state.
The event brought together policymakers, security chiefs, political leaders, diplomats, civil society organisations, academics, and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical measures to ensure peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.
