Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has presented staff of office and official vehicles to 19 emirs as part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and improve grassroots administration.

The coronation and presentation ceremony took place on Saturday at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, the state capital, with the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Etsu Nupe and the Emir of Gwandu among the dignitaries in attendance.

Following their oaths of office, Lawal presented the traditional rulers with their respective staffs of office, comprising 11 first-class and eight second-class emirs.

Each of the 19 emirs also received three official vehicles: a GAC Ultra SUV, a Mikano ZNA Hilux and an EV Antique Model car. The vehicles are intended to facilitate movement across their respective domains, strengthen community engagement and improve coordination with government institutions.

Speaking at the event, Lawal described the traditional institution as an enduring pillar of society and an important partner in promoting peace, stability and development.

He said the presentation symbolised the authority entrusted to the traditional rulers by the state government, alongside the responsibility to govern their respective communities with fairness, wisdom, integrity and compassion.

The governor urged the emirs to discharge their duties without discrimination, uphold justice and ensure that their palaces remained accessible to all members of their communities.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces across the state to improve the working conditions of traditional rulers.

Lawal called for a productive partnership between the emirates and the state government, urging the monarchs to support initiatives aimed at promoting peace and development. He also advised them to ensure that the vehicles were properly maintained and used responsibly for official duties.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto urged the newly coronated emirs to remain loyal to constituted authority and uphold the dignity of the traditional institution in carrying out their responsibilities.

He also encouraged them to discharge their duties with integrity and commitment to the welfare of their communities.

The ceremony formed part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of Zamfara State, which was created in 1996.