Dauda Lawal Dare is a Nigerian banker, politician, and the current Governor of Zamfara State.
He rose from humble beginnings to become a top executive in the banking industry before stepping into politics.
His story is one of education, persistence, and a passion for public service.
In this detailed biography, we explore Dauda Lawal Dare’s age, wife, children, tribe, net worth, and political journey.
Early Life and Background
Dauda Lawal Dare was born on 2 September 1965 in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State in Northern Nigeria. He comes from the Hausa ethnic group, one of the largest and most influential tribes in Nigeria.
His family was well known in Zamfara for their involvement in the textile trade. Growing up in the North shaped his values and gave him a deep connection with the people he would later serve as governor.
Education Journey
Education played a central role in Dauda Lawal Dare’s life. He studied Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree.
He went further to complete a Master’s degree in Political Science and International Relations from the same institution. Later, he obtained a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
To strengthen his global perspective, Dauda Lawal Dare also attended short and executive programs in world-renowned institutions such as Harvard Business School, the London School of Economics, Oxford University, and Lagos Business School. This mix of local and international exposure prepared him for leadership in both business and politics.
Career Path Before Politics
Before entering politics, Dauda Lawal Dare built a successful career in banking and public service.
Public Service: He started his career as a Political Education Officer with the Agency for Mass Mobilization for Social and Economic Reliance. Later, he worked at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D.C., serving as Assistant Consular Officer and later Chief Protocol Officer.
Private Sector: He also worked as an Assistant General Manager at Westex Nigeria Limited, gaining valuable experience in business management.
Banking Career: In 2003, Dauda Lawal Dare joined First Bank of Nigeria Plc, one of the country’s largest banks. He rose through the ranks to become Executive Director of Public Sector North, a prestigious position that placed him at the top of Nigeria’s financial industry.
His rise in the banking sector was proof of his hard work, leadership skills, and commitment to excellence.
Political Career and Governorship
Dauda Lawal Dare’s political journey was not without challenges. In 2018, he first attempted to run for the governorship of Zamfara State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), but he lost in the party primaries.
Rather than give up, he switched to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and continued to build his political profile.
In March 2023, he contested the Zamfara governorship election under the PDP and won, defeating the incumbent. He was sworn in on 29 May 2023 as the Governor of Zamfara State. His victory was historic as it ended APC’s control of the state and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Zamfara people.
As governor, Dauda Lawal Dare has focused on improving security, strengthening education, providing better healthcare, supporting farmers, and building infrastructure.
His leadership style is influenced by his years in the private sector, where discipline, planning, and accountability are key.
Age
Dauda Lawal Dare was born on 2 September 1965. As of 2025, he is 60 years old. His age represents both maturity and experience, qualities that have guided his leadership in the political and business world.
Wife and Family
Behind every successful man is often a supportive family, and Dauda Lawal Dare is no exception. He is married to Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, a strong and respected woman often described as his “pillar of strength.”
She is known for her humility, support for her husband’s political career, and her quiet but firm influence within their family and community.
Together, the couple has children, although the exact number has not been publicly disclosed.
Sadly, they lost a daughter named Aisha Musa Lawal Dare, a painful experience that touched many Nigerians who sympathized with the family. Despite this loss, Dauda Lawal Dare and his wife remain devoted parents and partners.
Tribe and Cultural Identity
Dauda Lawal Dare belongs to the Hausa tribe, one of the most prominent tribes in Nigeria. The Hausa people are known for their rich culture, language, and strong Islamic traditions.
Coming from Zamfara, a predominantly Hausa state, his tribe has played a big role in shaping his values, leadership style, and political base.
His identity as a proud Hausa man connects him deeply to his roots and strengthens his bond with his people.
Net Worth
Dauda Lawal Dare’s exact net worth is not publicly known, as Nigerian politicians rarely disclose their full assets. However, estimates put his net worth at around $1.5 million. This figure is based on his successful career in banking, his business interests, and his position as governor.
As a former Executive Director at First Bank, he earned significant income, and his investments have added to his wealth. Today, most of his resources come from his political career, allowances, and other legitimate sources of income.
Achievements and Leadership Style
Rose from humble beginnings to become a top banker in Nigeria.
Successfully transitioned from the private sector to politics, a rare achievement in Nigeria.
Became Governor of Zamfara State after defeating an incumbent in 2023.
Advocates for security, good governance, and economic empowerment of the people.
His leadership style is shaped by discipline, accountability, and strategic thinking, qualities he picked up from his banking career.
FAQs About Dauda Lawal Dare
1. Who is Dauda Lawal Dare?
Dauda Lawal Dare is a Nigerian politician, banker, and the current Governor of Zamfara State.
2. How old is Dauda Lawal Dare?
He was born on 2 September 1965 and is 60 years old as of 2025.
3. Who is Dauda Lawal Dare’s wife?
His wife is Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, who is often described as the strong pillar behind his success.
4. Does Dauda Lawal Dare have children?
Yes, he has children. Unfortunately, he lost a daughter named Aisha Musa Lawal Dare.
5. What tribe is Dauda Lawal Dare?
He belongs to the Hausa tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria.
6. What is Dauda Lawal Dare’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around $1.5 million, though this is not officially confirmed.
7. When did he become governor of Zamfara State?
He was elected in March 2023 and sworn in on 29 May 2023.
Final Thoughts
Dauda Lawal Dare’s biography reflects a life of resilience, education, and leadership. From his early days in Gusau to becoming the Governor of Zamfara State, his story is inspiring to young Nigerians who dream of success. His journey shows that with hard work, vision, and persistence, it is possible to rise from humble beginnings to positions of great influence.
