Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has commended Zamfara State Governor Governor Dauda Lawal for what he described as “remarkable progress” in the state, especially in health and infrastructure development.

Obasanjo gave the commendation on Tuesday while commissioning several capital projects in Gusau, including the newly rehabilitated Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital and key road networks.

Speaking at the hospital’s commissioning, Obasanjo expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done, stating that Zamfara is on a transformative path under Governor Lawal’s leadership.

He said, “I am in Zamfara today to see the new, improved and improving Zamfara under your leadership. The Health Commissioner mentioned that the hospital now has a CT scan and an MRI machine. I know some teaching hospitals don’t have these facilities—or have them, but they don’t function. Here, you have both—and they are working.”

Obasanjo also described the upgraded specialist hospital as a symbol of progress and applauded the governor for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the state.

“I am delighted to commission this remodelled and re-equipped hospital. It is a major step forward for the well-being of everyone who will come here for medical attention,” he added.

The former president also flagged off the newly completed Zannah Road to Abarma Road project and the Tsalha Bungudu to Kwanar Birnin Ruwa Road, describing them as vital arteries for economic development.

“From what I have seen and heard, Zamfara is becoming a modern state. We are partners in progress. I urge you to stay focused and continue enhancing this great state throughout your tenure,” he said.

In his remarks, Governor Dauda Lawal thanked Obasanjo for visiting and commissioning the projects, noting the significance of the hospital renovation and the addition of advanced medical equipment.

He said, “Your Excellency, thank you for honouring our invitation. This state is your second home, especially because of your long-standing passion for agriculture, which is our primary occupation in Zamfara.

Highlighting the scope of work done at the hospital, Lawal said: “The Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital has undergone massive renewal and expansion. We built new residential quarters for doctors, including two- and three-bedroom units and a befitting residence for the Chief Medical Director.

“We have also constructed a new Obstetrics and Gynecology wing, a modern Radiology Complex, a Laboratory Complex, and a patient relaxation arena. Internal road networks were introduced for better mobility and aesthetics.”

The governor revealed that 14 key departments had been completely renovated and upgraded, while the hospital was equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including diagnostic and therapeutic tools for radiology, dialysis, endoscopy, surgery, ophthalmology, and more.

“From beds to electronic systems, waste management infrastructure to dental suites—this hospital is now prepared to serve as a referral centre for complex cases, a training ground for medical personnel, and a hub for research and innovation,” Lawal stated.