Zamfara

Zamfara is a state in northwestern Nigeria. It is named after the Zamfara River and has Gusau as its capital and largest city. The state was created on October 1, 1996, from Sokoto State during the military rule of General Sani Abacha. It borders Kebbi to the west and northwest, Katsina to the northeast, Kaduna to the north, Niger to the east, and Sokoto to the south. The terrain is primarily savanna and semi-arid, with a distinct dry season and a rainy season that support crops such as millet, sorghum, maize, and groundnuts. The population is in the low millions; the people are mainly Hausa-speaking, with Fulani and other ethnic groups, and Islam is the predominant religion.

Administratively, Zamfara is divided into 14 local government areas and is governed by a state governor and legislature within Nigeria’s federal system. The state lies in the West Africa Time zone (UTC+1).

Economy: Agriculture is the mainstay, complemented by livestock herding and mining, notably gold. Trade with neighboring states and cross-border exchanges with Niger Republic also contribute to the economy.

Security and society: Since the mid-2010s, Zamfara has faced security challenges including banditry and intermittent clashes, leading to displacement and humanitarian needs. The government and security forces have conducted operations to restore order and protect civilians.

Culture: The state supports traditional structures alongside formal governance, with emirs and customary authorities operating within a modern administrative framework.