From Shuaibu Ibrahim, Gusau
Governor Dauda Lawal has distributed 50 new buses to the Zamfara State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) under the Zamfara State Loan Scheme, as part of efforts to improve public transportation and empower transport operators.
The buses were officially handed over on Wednesday at the Government House in Gusau.
According to a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the initiative is designed to strengthen the state’s transport sector while providing affordable access to vehicles for union members.
Governor Lawal said each bus was procured at a cost of N27.39 million, with the state government subsidising 20 percent of the purchase price, amounting to N5.478 million per vehicle.
Under the arrangement, each beneficiary will repay N21.912 million over a 44-month period, while the NURTW will assist in identifying beneficiaries, supervising the programme, and ensuring loan repayment.
“The loan scheme is part of our administration’s commitment to improving public transportation, promoting economic empowerment, and enhancing the safety and efficiency of transportation for our people,” the governor said.
In addition to the buses, Governor Lawal commissioned five new fire trucks to boost the operational capacity of the Zamfara State Fire Service.
He noted that the modern firefighting vehicles would improve emergency response to fire outbreaks across the state, helping to protect lives, homes, businesses, and livelihoods.
The governor urged the Fire Service to ensure proper training of personnel, intensify public fire safety awareness campaigns, and maintain the equipment in good working condition.
Lawal also reminded beneficiaries and government agencies that the distributed assets belong to the people of Zamfara State, directing all ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and beneficiaries to submit quarterly maintenance and utilisation reports.
He warned that vandalism, misuse, or diversion of the assets would not be tolerated.
