Zamfara Women’s Group Endorses Governor Lawal for Re-election, Pledges Support for Female Leadership
Gusau, Zamfara State – As the political landscape of Zamfara State gears up for the 2027 general elections, a prominent women’s advocacy group, “Women for Women” (operating under the “He for She” initiative), has officially thrown its weight behind the re-election bid of the incumbent Governor, Dauda Lawal. This significant endorsement coincided with a large-scale distribution of essential goods and financial aid to over 10,000 women across the state, a gesture spearheaded by Fatima Umar Aliyu Shinkafi, the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund.
The formal announcement and the subsequent humanitarian outreach took place on Wednesday evening in Gusau, the state capital, during a celebratory reception meticulously organised by the Women for Women group. The event was specifically held to honour Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi, recognising her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the less privileged, with a particular focus on women within Zamfara State.
Dr. Luba Ammani, the Zamfara State Coordinator for Women for Women (He for She), articulated the group’s rationale for hosting the reception. “We felt compelled to organise this reception for Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi to express our profound gratitude for her consistent humanitarian efforts. Her contributions have touched the lives of women and other vulnerable segments of our society throughout Zamfara State,” Dr. Ammani stated. She further elaborated on Shinkafi’s impact, highlighting her commitment to uplifting communities and addressing the needs of those most in need.
The momentum for Governor Lawal’s re-election was further amplified during the reception. Hajiya Ai Maradun, the Chairperson of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Elders Committee, speaking at the event, revealed that a broad consensus among women in the state has been reached, leading to their endorsement of Governor Dauda Lawal for a second term in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Hajiya Maradun underscored the perceived merits of Governor Lawal’s leadership, asserting that he is deserving of another term to continue his developmental agenda. However, she also introduced a forward-looking perspective, suggesting that after Governor Lawal completes his two terms, the state should actively support a female candidate for the governorship. In this context, she specifically mentioned Hajiya Fatima Umar Aliyu Shinkafi as a potential successor, highlighting the importance of female representation in the state’s highest office. This sentiment signals a growing aspiration for women to assume leadership roles at the highest levels of governance in Zamfara State.
Following the formal proceedings of the reception, Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi immediately commenced the distribution of her philanthropic package. This initiative saw over 10,000 wrappers and substantial cash donations being disbursed to women from various communities across Zamfara State.
Explaining the motivation behind this extensive distribution, Shinkafi stated that it forms an integral part of her ongoing humanitarian mission. She reiterated her commitment to supporting the impoverished and less privileged individuals within the state, aiming to alleviate their burdens and improve their socio-economic conditions. The distribution is expected to have a tangible impact on the lives of many families, providing much-needed resources and a sense of support.
The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, was also present at the event and took the opportunity to commend Fatima Shinkafi’s generous act. She expressed her deep appreciation for the gesture, noting its potential to significantly complement the efforts already being undertaken by the state government. Hajiya Lawal emphasised that such private sector-led humanitarian initiatives are crucial in addressing the needs of the vulnerable and less privileged populations, reinforcing the collaborative spirit required for effective social development. Her remarks underscored the synergy between governmental initiatives and the contributions of philanthropic individuals and organisations in building a stronger Zamfara.
