Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated his administration’s commitment to working closely with security forces in Zamfara State, particularly the Nigerian Air Force, in the fight against banditry.
On Thursday, Governor Lawal received the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, who visited Zamfara following the accidental airstrike that killed 11 civilians near Gidan Makera in Zurmi Local Government Area on January 11, 2025.
During the visit, Governor Lawal commended the Air Force for its swift response to distress calls in volatile areas of the state and acknowledged their efforts in addressing security challenges.
“I want to express my appreciation for the Chief of the Air Staff, who, before this visit, sent a high-powered delegation to commiserate with us and the people of Zamfara,” Lawal said. “The presence of the Chief of Air Staff in Zamfara reflects exceptional professionalism and concern.”
The governor reaffirmed that the state government remains committed to its stance against negotiating with bandits, emphasizing that their approach is yielding positive results.
“We have made it clear that we are not ready and will never negotiate with the bandits. Our position is paying off, as peace is gradually returning to Zamfara,” he stated.
Governor Lawal also disclosed that the state is constructing an airport and appealed to the Nigerian Air Force to establish a hangar at the facility to enhance operational efficiency.
“We will continue to engage with the Air Force because we need their support in the fight against banditry. I assure you that our government will do everything possible to support the troops,” he added.
In response, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the tragic airstrike and extended his condolences to the victims' families and the people of Zamfara.
“A few days after the operation, a news report claimed that the airstrike had mistakenly hit members of a vigilante group,” he said. “Deeply concerned by this, I immediately constituted a committee for a thorough investigation. The findings confirmed that 11 members of the vigilante were unintentionally killed.”
He assured the governor of the Air Force’s commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future and continuing efforts to restore security in the region.
Following the discussions, Governor Lawal and the Chief of Air Staff met privately with the families of the victims and those injured in the incident.
