Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has been named “Outstanding Governor of the Year” at the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award held in London.
The award, presented by Triangle Media International Magazine, was given during its 10th annual lecture and award ceremony at King’s College, London, on Thursday.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the event honoured leaders whose work has impacted governance and service delivery.
The statement said Lawal received the award in recognition of “achieving a remarkable milestone in service delivery” since taking office on May 29, 2023.
It added that despite inheriting “an empty treasury,” the governor has stayed committed to his “Rescue agenda” aimed at rebuilding the state.
The magazine said the award also reflects Zamfara’s “innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement.”
This includes declaring a state of emergency in education, paying “outstanding ₦3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO,” and rebuilding schools across all 14 local government areas.
Organisers described these actions as “strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”
The lecture, themed “Harnessing the roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together public and private sector leaders.
Among those present were Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Sahara Group Managing Director Kola Adesina.
The statement noted that the awards mark the magazine’s 10th anniversary, celebrating notable Africans across different fields.
Lawal’s recognition comes as state governments face pressure to improve services and address insecurity across Nigeria.
