By Abubakar H. Muhammad (9News Nigeria Northeast)
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has presented staff of office and official vehicles to the 19 emirs in the state.
The ceremony was held in Gusau, the state capital, on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
According to Channels Television, the presentation formed part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of Zamfara State’s creation.
The event brought together all 19 emirs, including some who had been appointed before the current administration but were not formally coronated until Mr. Lawal assumed office.
The staff of office presented to each emir is the traditional symbol of authority and legitimacy.
It is the official instrument that confirms a traditional ruler’s recognition by the state government and empowers him to preside over the affairs of his emirate.
It also enables him to serve as custodian of culture and tradition and confers on him membership of the state Council of Chiefs.
The ornate staff typically bears the state’s coat of arms and the insignia of the respective emirate.
Alongside the staff, the governor also presented a fleet of brand new vehicles to the monarchs.
The fleet comprises the latest 2025 and 2026 models of Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs. These are full time four-wheel drive luxury vehicles known for their durability and high performance on rough terrain, traditionally reserved for first-class emirs.
Also in the fleet are GAC GS8 SUVs, premium seven-seater Chinese-built SUVs equipped with luxury interiors and advanced safety features.
Also included are EV Antics, electric-powered utility vehicles introduced as part of a clean energy drive.
By prevailing market prices in Nigeria, a Toyota Land Cruiser of the 2025/2026 model sells between N180 million and N260 million per unit.
A GAC GS8 sells between N65 million and N90 million per unit.
An EV Antics sells between N25 million and N45 million per unit.
Based on these prices, the combined value of the 19 vehicles is conservatively estimated at between N2.6 billion and over N3.5 billion at top trim.
The estimate excludes registration and insurance costs.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Lawal described the presentation as a significant milestone in the history and governance of the state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of traditional rulers as critical partners in promoting peace, stability, and development.
He urged the emirs to discharge their responsibilities with fairness, wisdom, integrity, and compassion.
He also called on the traditional rulers to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by providing credible information and mobilizing community support.
He stressed that restoring lasting peace required sustained government efforts, effective security operations, and the cooperation of local communities.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has also attended the ceremony.
While speaking, he urged the monarchs to uphold the fear of God in the discharge of their duties.
He also expressed concern over the poor condition of the Sokoto-Gusau Road and called on relevant authorities to take urgent action.
