Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, is pushing for additional assistance from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund to finish ongoing projects at the state’s tertiary institutions.
According to The PUNCH, in a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, it was revealed that Lawal made this plea during a recent visit to the TETFund headquarters in Abuja.
Lawal specifically sought support for Zamfara State University and Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, noting that several projects initiated by past administrations remain uncompleted.
He stressed the critical need for these interventions to resolve accreditation challenges 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 drew attention to the wider issues confronting Zamfara, such as insecurity and outstanding salaries left over 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 stated that his government has already addressed 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.
Responding, TETFund Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, praised Lawal for his accomplishments during 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 stated.
