Zamfara seeking partnerships in agric sector, Dauda Lawal tells Canadian investors

Dauda Lawal, the governor of Zamfara, says the state is seeking partnerships to transform its agricultural sector.

Lawal spoke at the 2025 Canada-Africa trade and investment expo.

The event was recently held at the Toronto Marriott City Hotel in Canada, according to a statement on Thursday by Sulaiman Idris, the governor’s spokesperson.

Speaking at the conference, Lawal said development is not just a matter of national policy, but also a function of subnational action.

“While our Federal Governments provide policy direction, it is within our States, provinces, and Local Governments that the promises of trade, investment, and growth must be translated into tangible realities,” Lawal was quoted as saying.

“Sub-national Governments are the places where farmers cultivate the crops that feed nations, where mining operations either succeed or fail, where young people seek opportunities, and where investors look for clarity, stability, and fair return.

“This is why my presence here as Governor of Zamfara is not incidental, but deliberate. It underscores the fact that Africa’s renaissance will be driven as much by its States and provinces as by its capitals.”

The governor said Zamfara is seeking Canadian partnerships to transform its agricultural sector through mechanisation, irrigation, and agro-industrial development as it aims to become a food basket for Nigeria and Africa.

“Agriculture is central to our economy. With over 70% of its land arable, Zamfara could become a food basket for Nigeria and the African continent,” he said.

“We seek partnerships in mechanization, irrigation, post-harvest management, storage, and agro-industrial chains.

“Canadian expertise, paired with our farmers’ resilience, can set a new food security model for Africa.

“Beyond agriculture, Zamfara has solid minerals like gold, lithium, manganese, and granite vital for energy transition.

“We aim to learn from past mistakes, ensuring resource wealth translates to prosperity, not just extraction. We are strengthening regulations, promoting responsible mining, and benefiting local communities.

“I urge Canadian friends to look beyond Africa’s capitals to its heartlands, its farms, schools, industries, and communities, where true partnerships will thrive.

“Encourage African leaders, including myself, to reform, strengthen governance, uphold transparency, and foster an environment for partnerships.”

Lawal noted that Canada’s democratic traditions, robust economy, responsible mining, and innovative private sector make it a natural partner for Africa.

He said rather than charity, Africa seeks authentic collaboration based on mutual respect, fairness, and shared values.