A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Zanna, representing Bungudu and Maru constituency of Zamfara State, has proposed education as the ultimate solution to the prolonged insecurity plaguing the northern parts of Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of providing children and youths with access to both Western and Islamic education at all levels.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Hon. Zanna highlighted that nearly 90% of the people in his constituency have been facing security challenges for the past thirty years. He stated, “To be frank, understanding the root causes is essential to finding the cure.”
He explained that the insecurity initially stemmed from clashes between farmers and herders. Disputes often arose when cattle strayed into farms and destroyed crops. While some conflicts were resolved locally, others escalated to involve the police and courts.
Hon.Zanna stressed the need to investigate the root causes of insecurity, noting that many of those involved are underage individuals who lack both Western and Islamic education. “How do you expect those who do not know how to worship and grow up in a community where such acts occur daily to behave differently?” he asked. He called for advocacy on the significance of education to improve the lives of people in the region.
When asked about his efforts to tackle the menace, Hon. Zanna stated, “As a representative in the House of Representatives, I believe that access to education is the only solution. If our upcoming generations receive quality education, the issue of insecurity will be resolved.”
He shared his commitment to supporting education in his constituency, revealing that last year he sponsored the education of over ten thousand people. He recounted a recent incident at the University of Gusau, where he intervened to help students who were unable to pay their school fees. “I received a complaint around 1:00 am and by 6:00 pm, we had settled the issue for at least ninety students,” he said.
When asked if the students were from his constituency, he replied, “No, it goes beyond constituency matters; it’s about assistance.”
Regarding his political ambitions for 2027, Hon. Zanna stated, “I have not decided on my political ambitions because I have people I trust and respect who guide my decisions. Some people view my educational initiatives as political, but I emphasize that helping individuals with education is a permanent support, not a temporary gift.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to supporting education until the security situation is resolved.