Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, on Monday, July 13, 2026, threw her weight behind Zamfara State’s emerging investment profile, commending Governor Dauda Lawal for what she described as a focused and results-driven economic agenda.
Speaking during a high-level courtesy visit at the Government House in Gusau, the Minister said Zamfara is fast positioning itself as a credible destination for both domestic and foreign investors, citing deliberate policy direction and growing infrastructure investments.
“The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is committed to supporting states that demonstrate clear visions for economic diversification. Zamfara, under Governor Lawal’s leadership, is showing that it means business,” Oduwole stated.
She noted that her visit reflects the Federal Government’s renewed push to deepen engagement with subnational governments, especially those aligning with national priorities on industrialisation and trade expansion. As Chair of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers for Trade, Oduwole emphasized her focus on strengthening state-level participation in continental trade frameworks and unlocking opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
A key highlight of the engagement was Zamfara’s ongoing infrastructure upgrade drive, particularly the development of the Gusau International Airport, a project expected to significantly improve logistics, connectivity and trade flow within the region.
The Minister also applauded the recent commissioning of a $200 million lithium mining and processing facility, describing it as a strategic leap that places Zamfara firmly within the global critical minerals value chain—an increasingly competitive and high-value sector.
Governor Lawal, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a business-friendly environment capable of attracting foreign direct investment, stimulating local enterprise and creating sustainable jobs, particularly for youth and women.
He stressed that the state’s economic blueprint is anchored on leveraging its vast mineral resources while ensuring long-term sustainability and inclusive growth.
Both parties agreed to deepen collaboration in key areas including trade facilitation, industrial policy execution and investment promotion, signaling stronger federal-state synergy in driving economic development.
The visit marks a significant boost to Zamfara’s economic ambitions, as the state continues to reposition itself as a rising investment frontier in Northwest Nigeria.
