Trade Minister Hails Zamfara’s Investment Reforms, Backs Lawal’s Push for Economic Growth

Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has praised Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, for what she described as the administration’s deliberate efforts to reposition the state as an emerging investment destination through economic reforms and industrial development.

Oduwole gave the commendation during a working visit to the Government House in Gusau on Monday, where she met with the governor to discuss strategies for strengthening trade, investment and industrial growth in the state.

Speaking during the visit, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with states pursuing clear economic development agendas.

“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,” she said.

She noted that the visit reflected the Federal Government’s broader commitment to fostering stronger collaboration with state governments in advancing economic development and unlocking investment opportunities across the country.

The minister added, “As Chair of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers for Trade, I remain focused on driving inclusive continental trade and strengthening state-level partnerships.”

Discussions during the meeting focused on key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the state’s economic competitiveness. Among them is the ongoing construction of the Gusau International Airport, a project expected to improve connectivity, facilitate commerce and strengthen trade logistics within and beyond the region.

Oduwole also commended the recent inauguration of a $200 million lithium mining and processing facility in Zamfara, describing it as a significant milestone that positions the state within the global critical minerals market while expanding opportunities for industrial investment.

Governor Lawal, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses, attracting both local and foreign investors, and expanding employment opportunities for youths and women across the state.

The meeting also explored areas of future collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Zamfara State Government, particularly in trade facilitation, industrial policy implementation and investment promotion.

The minister’s visit is widely seen as a boost to Zamfara’s ongoing economic transformation agenda, with the state seeking to leverage its vast mineral resources, infrastructure investments and strategic location to drive sustainable growth and attract increased private-sector participation in Northwest Nigeria.