Thousands of Zamfara residents gathered in Gusau on Friday for a symbolic “Walk for Peace” to commemorate the second anniversary of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, amid claims by the governor of marked improvements in security across the state.

The event, which began at the Government House and culminated at Freedom Square in the city centre, was described by the organisers as historic. It aimed to promote peace and unity among citizens while rallying collective support against criminality and violence.

In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the government said the peace walk was designed to showcase the growing sense of stability and communal resolve in the state after years of insecurity.

Addressing the crowd, Governor Lawal expressed satisfaction with the turnout, describing it as a testament to the public’s yearning for peace and support for ongoing security efforts.

“Today, we have all come out in thousands to march for peace, to let the world know that Zamfara has significantly improved in terms of security,” he said.

The governor noted that his administration had made strategic investments in security, including troop empowerment, intelligence gathering, and partnerships with relevant agencies. According to him, areas once considered banditry hotspots had been reclaimed, with major roads now reopened for public use.

“We have recorded tremendous success in the fight against banditry; most of the volatile areas previously flashpoints of concern are now peaceful,” he said.

Lawal pointed to the visible freedom of movement and the enthusiastic participation in the peace walk as signs of progress. “This clearly indicates that our people are peaceful and desire peace. It also demonstrates that the people understand and appreciate what the state government is doing to promote peace,” he added.

Zamfara, one of Nigeria’s states worst hit by years of armed banditry and rural insecurity, has seen successive attempts by different administrations to address the root causes of violence. Governor Lawal’s tenure has been marked by renewed calls for military intervention, dialogue with affected communities, and increased investment in civil infrastructure.

Friday’s walk, coming two years into his tenure, appears intended to signal a turning point — or at the very least, a pause in a crisis that has long defined the region.

Whether the optimism expressed by the state government will translate into lasting peace remains to be seen, but for now, the people of Zamfara have made their voices heard — walking for peace, and perhaps, for hope.