The Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has appealed for additional interventions from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund to complete unfinished projects at the state’s tertiary institutions.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, it was disclosed that Lawal made this appeal during an official visit to the TETFund headquarters in Abuja.
Lawal specifically requested support for Zamfara State University and Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, highlighting that numerous projects initiated by previous administrations remain abandoned.
He emphasised the urgent need for these interventions to address accreditation issues at Abdu Gusau Polytechnic.
“The last time I visited TETFund, I mentioned that we are like Oliver Twist, always asking for more. Today, I am here again to request additional support for some Zamfara tertiary institutions,” Lawal stated.
“During my visit to Talata Mafara Local Government Area two weeks ago, I saw the projects carried out by TETFund at Zamfara State University. Unfortunately, there are numerous abandoned projects from the previous governments in the state. We’re experiencing issues with accreditations at Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, and we need your support to resolve this.”
Lawal also highlighted the broader challenges facing Zamfara, including insecurity and unpaid salaries inherited from the previous administration.
“When we assumed office last year, employees had not been paid for three months, and our students could not take their WAEC and NECO examinations. We also have students on scholarships in Cyprus, India, and Sudan who were abandoned,” he added.
Lawal noted that his administration has since settled these outstanding obligations.
“We are here to seek your interventions which will go a long way in our efforts to rescue and rebuild Zamfara,” he concluded.
In response, TETFund Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, commended Lawal for his achievements in his first year in office.
“I want to congratulate you on your one year in office and appreciate the work you are doing in government offices, institutions, hospitals, and other areas. We will review the request from His Excellency and do everything possible. Your diligence in addressing state issues is commendable and shows a high level of seriousness. I want to personally thank you for settling the WAEC and NECO debts,” Echono said.
