ZAMFARA STATE, pSPI REPORT 2025
Gold-Rich State
Overall pSPI Rank:
33rd out of 36 states & the FCT
pSPI Ranking:
(Satisfactory 2-Star Performer)
People & Culture
A State of Diverse Ethinc Heritage
Zamfara State, located in northwestern Nigeria, covers a landmass of 39,762 sq km with 14 LGAs, is home to almost 6 million people, predominantly of the Hausa ethnic group, with Fulani, Gobirawa, Burmawa, and Alibawa minorities. The Hausa language is widely spoken, while Fulfulde is common among the Fulani population.
The state is rich in cultural heritage, with key traditions that define its identity. The Durbar Festival is a spectacular horse parade and royal celebration, showcasing Islamic and aristocratic heritage. The Argungu Fishing Festival is another major cultural event that attracts visitors from across Nigeria. Artisanal crafts such as traditional pottery, weaving, and metalwork thrive, while Hausa music and Fulani dance performances play a significant role in celebrations. Community and family values remain strong, with social ties, collective responsibility, and religious traditions shaping daily life.
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Politics
The Political Wild Card of the Northwest
Zamfara’s political history has been marked by instability, court rulings, and sudden power shifts. Since its creation in 1996, the state has witnessed unexpected political upheavals, making it one of the most unpredictable states in Nigeria.
In 2019, APC lost control due to a Supreme Court ruling, handing the governorship to PDP’s Bello Matawalle. However, in 2023, the tides shifted again, with Dauda Lawal of PDP reclaiming power from Matawalle, who had defected to APC.
Zamfara’s politics is shaped by security challenges, factional infighting, and the influence of former governors. As the state battles banditry and economic struggles, future elections could swing in any direction, making Zamfara a state to watch closely.
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Economy – Agriculture and Gold Mining
Zamfara State’s economic foundation rests heavily on agriculture and mining, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s overall Gross Domestic Product. The state’s agricultural sector thrives, enabling the production of key crops such as millet, maize, rice, cotton, and ground nuts. In addition to agriculture, gold mining is a crucial component of Zamfara’s economy, positioning the state as one of Nigeria’s top gold-producing regions. However, this sector faces considerable challenges, including illegal mining operations and the resulting environmental degradation. Furthermore, Zamfara’s strategic geographical location, bordering the Niger Republic, facilitates active cross-border trade, which further supports the state’s commercial activities.
Key Economic Indicators (pSPI 2025)
| Metric | Value | National Rank |
|---|---|---|
| IGR Per Capita | ₦3,800 |  27th |
| IGR Per Km² | ₦577,369 | 25th |
| IGR Per Mineral Resources | ₦7.38 billion | 34th |
| IGR Per Trade Route | ₦7.8 billion | 15th |
| IGR to Total Revenue | 17% | 30th |
| Assets Per Capita | ₦9,154 | 34th |
| Debt Per Capita | ₦20,159 | 7th |
| Capital Expenditure Per Capita | ₦52,840 | 9th |
What this means:
The state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) is moderate, ranking 21st per capita. However, its mineral resources contribute significantly to revenue (10th nationally). With IGR making up 17% of total revenue (14th), the state shows some financial independence. Notably, IGR accounts for 70% of its federal allocations (7th), indicating a strong reliance on local revenue to supplement FAAC funds.
pSPI Performance - Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
High Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Per Mineral Resources: Zamfara ranks 10th nationwide.
Investment in Capital Expenditure: The state has the highest Capital Expenditure to FAAC ratio in Nigeria (9.67).
Relatively Good Roads: 10th best in Nigeria in road maintenance and condition.
Weaknesses
Severe Security Challenges: Ranked 34th nationwide for security, with high levels of banditry, kidnapping, and rural violence.
Poor Public Services: Low ranking in healthcare, education, and clean water access.
High Unemployment & Poverty: 77% of residents earn below ₦500,000 per year.
Citizen Satisfaction -The Public Verdict
Residents’ opinions on public services in Zamfara State:
| Service Area | Rank | % Satisfied |
|---|---|---|
| Quality of Roads | 10th | 56% |
| Honesty of Public Servants | 13th | 41% |
| Security of Lives and Property | 34th | 27% |
| Quality of Public Primary and Secondary Education | 19th | 39th |
| Affordability of Public Primary and Secondary Education | 36th | 39% |
| Quality of Public Hospitals | 16th | 39% |
| Affordability of Public Hospitals | 19th | 49th |
| Gaining Meaningful Employment | 4th | 34% |
| Awareness of Government Policy and Programs | 14th | 46% |
| Government Support for Local Businesses | 11th | 41% |
| Available, Effective, and Safe Public Transportation | 20th | 37% |
| Availability of Clean Water Supply | 13th | 37% |
| Cleanliness of the Environment | 21st | 34% |
| Buying, Registering, and Owning Landed Property | 12th | 49% |
| Availability of Legal Economic Opportunities | 20th | 32% |
| Attitude of State-Controlled Law Enforcement Agents | 15th | 41% |
Relocation Trends & Insights
Top Preferred Relocation States & Possible Reasons
Sokoto State
Shared cultural, religious, and trade ties
FCT Abuja
Economic growth and business opportunities
kano State
Industrial and commercial development
Kaduna State
Business opportunities and better infrastructure
Zamfara State
Proximity and cultural familiarity
Least Preferred States & Reasons
ZamfaraState
Security concerns and lack of infrastructure
Kaduna State
Ethnic/religious tensions
Kano State
Congestion and economic struggles
Sokoto State
Security concerns and lack of infrastructure
Borno State
Terrorism threats
Local Government & Grassroot Governance
Zamfara has one of the highest levels of local political awareness and engagement among respondents:
do not know their LGA chairman
unaware of projects at the LGA level
unaware of socioeconomic programmes
This suggests a need for more inclusive grassroots governance, especially in rural LGAs.
Survey Respondent Overview
Gender
Age Distribution
Employment
Top LGAs Represented
Gusau (40%), Kaura-Namoda (10%), Zurmi (6%), Anka (6%), Maru (6%)
Citizens’ Recommendations - What the People Want
144 survey respondents comprising both residents and indigenous people highlighted the following key demands
- Â Security First: Citizens consistently ranked security as the most pressing issue, particularly banditry and kidnapping. Many urged the government to collaborate more with local vigilantes and federal forces.Â
- Employment & Youth Support: Respondents requested more job opportunities, especially for graduates, and support for youth-driven businesses.Â
- Support for Farmers and IDPs: Farmers requested access to subsidised inputs and safe access to their farmlands. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) asked for housing, jobs, and food aid.Â
- Governance Accountability: Some respondents praised recent initiatives, but others expressed disillusionment with unfulfilled promises. They demanded greater transparency.Â
- Health and Education Improvements: Calls were made to upgrade hospitals and schools, and ensure qualified personnel and availability of supplies.Â
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pSPI Recommendations - Action Plan for Zamfara State
Based on the pSPI data and citizen feedback, Zamfara urgently needs to:
- Improve Security Architecture: Widespread insecurity, particularly in rural areas, hampers agricultural productivity and citizen mobility. Enhanced community policing and intelligence-based responses are essential.Â
- Invest in Infrastructure & Essential Services: Roads, clean water, and health facilities are in critical condition across many LGAs. Targeted investment can greatly improve rural livelihoods.Â
- Formalise and Regulate Mining Sector: While mining is a key economic activity, its informal nature contributes to insecurity. Proper regulation and community benefit frameworks can enhance safety and revenue.Â
- Expand Education and Healthcare Access: Public schools and hospitals remain under-resourced. Recruitment, training, and infrastructure investments are required.Â
- Boost Local Governance Transparency: Many residents remain unaware of LGA-level projects. A public reporting system and inclusive community meetings can help rebuild trust.Â
Zamfara State 2025
has significant economic potential with agriculture and gold mining as its backbone. However, insecurity, poor public services, and high unemployment continue to hinder development. To improve its PSPI ranking, Zamfara must prioritise security, economic reforms, and infrastructure development while ensuring better governance and transparency. With strategic policies and strong leadership, the state can unlock its full potential and become a prosperous economic hub in northwestern Nigeria.