By Goje Ahmed
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has called for proactive leadership, integrated governance, and strengthened community partnerships to address insecurity in higher institutions located in bandit-affected regions.
Governor Lawal stated this at the launch of the “book University Governance and Insecurity in Nigeria” organised in honour of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Gusau (FUGUS), Professor Mu’azu Abubakar Gusau,
The Governor highlighted the risks faced by universities in insecure areas, including threats to students and staff, weak infrastructure, and environmental vulnerabilities.
He stressed the importance of foresight, policy-driven action, and collaboration with local, state, and federal security agencies. Governor Lawal also recommended investment in preventive infrastructure such as lighting, surveillance systems, communication networks, community-based intelligence, security awareness programmes, and counselling services.
The Governor commended Professor Gusau for his impactful leadership and infrastructural development at FUGUS, noting the progress made despite past challenges, including a bandit attack that led to kidnappings two years ago.
He urged the incoming university administration to build on existing achievements, enhance accountability, integrate practical skills and entrepreneurship into academic programmes, and develop a strategic roadmap to elevate the university’s national and continental standing.
The event brought together Vice-Chancellors, academicians, students, traditional rulers, and other education stakeholders, with 25 copies of the book officially launched at a total cost of ₦10 million.
The Governor also assured that the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has developed a roadmap to strengthen cooperation among federal, state, and private tertiary institutions across Zamfara State, reflecting a broader policy approach to safeguarding education and promoting academic excellence in insecure environments.
