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Tag: Dikko Umaru Radda

  • Radda begins distribution of 1,100 motorcycles, drilling machines

    Radda begins distribution of 1,100 motorcycles, drilling machines

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, yesterday in Katsina, kicked off the distribution of 1,100 motorcycles to Community Development Officers (CDOs), Community Support Officers (CSOs),and Community Learning Officers (CLOs), and inaugurated six tube-well drilling machines and three wheel air compressors to strengthen grassroots service delivery and irrigation farming across the state.

    The governor said the intervention reflects his administration’s strategy of strengthening ward-level institutions, investing in productive infrastructure and placing communities at the centre of planning and development.

    He  further said the Community Development Programme (CDP) was established to deepen government presence at the grassroots, with CDOs, CSOs and CLOs mobilising communities, supervising projects, ensuring accountability and serving as the vital link between the government and people.

    Radda also stated that the motorcycles would enhance mobility, monitoring and access to rural and hard-to-reach areas. He said the motorcycles were being provided under a hire-purchase scheme, with the government paying 50 per cent of the cost while beneficiaries would repay the balance over five years, to promote ownership, responsibility and sustainability.

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    He said: ‘’These motorcycles are tools for service, not gifts. Any sale or misuse will attract sanctions in line with the Civil Service Rules.”

    On agriculture, he recalled the earlier distribution of 4,000 solar irrigation pumps and 100 bags of fertiliser per ward, which boosted dry-season farming. He added that this year, irrigation wards also received gasoline pumps, knapsack sprayers, as well as free fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides.

    The governor said the new drilling machines and air compressors would expand access to groundwater, support dry-season irrigation, reduce dependence on rainfall and strengthen climate-resilient agriculture.

    He described the combined provision of irrigation equipment, farm input, drilling capacity and improved mobility for frontline officers as an integrated approach to community empowerment and results-driven governance.

    The governor commended the Ministry of Agriculture, the programme, the Katsina State Irrigation Development Authority and development partners, and urged beneficiaries to use the equipment responsibly and in strict accordance with CDP guidelines.

    Earlier, the Coordinator of the CDP, Dr. Kamaladdeen, thanked Radda for his support, describing the day as historic for the CDP and the 361 wards of the state.

    He said the distribution of the motorcycles would improve mobility, supervision and monitoring of projects, and strengthen service delivery at the grassroots.

    He stressed that the motorcycles are for official use only and must not be sold, warning that any misuse would attract sanctions under the Civil Service Rule

    The coordinator assured of their continued commitment to accountability, effective project delivery and strong partnership with MDAs, while appreciating the Governor for prioritising community-driven development and rural empowerment.

    Also, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Aliyu Lawal Zakari Sahrgalle, said the event marked another milestone in strengthening agriculture, rural development and grassroots service delivery.

    He noted that with the challenges of climate change and irregular rainfall, the new irrigation equipment would support year-round farming, increase yields, raise farmers’ income, create jobs and improve food security.

  • Radda completes tour of 34 LGAs, inaugurates projects in Katsina

    Radda completes tour of 34 LGAs, inaugurates projects in Katsina

    • …as supporters back his 2027 re-election

    Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has concluded a statewide tour of all 34 local government areas, commissioning key infrastructural projects and receiving empowerment donations from NGOs and public-spirited individuals.

    The governor, who was greeted by massive public support across the state, also secured strong endorsements for his second-term bid ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Radda rounded off the tour in Katsina LGA, where he inaugurated several projects executed by the Local Government Chairman, Isah Miqdad.

    These include an upgraded Legislative Council Chamber, new council offices, a renovated ICT centre, official vehicles for council officers, and a new Primary Health Care Centre in Unguwar Yari Arewa ‘A’.

    He commended the unity among stakeholders and highlighted the state’s ongoing urban renewal efforts, including road expansions and dual carriageways designed to enhance tourism and economic activities. 

    The governor also announced the forthcoming Health Imaging Centre Hospital, valued at over N34 billion, promising its commissioning within his tenure.

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    “Accountability is our priority. You gave us your mandate; we must deliver,” he said, noting that local government autonomy is now visible as council chairmen can present clear development plans for their communities.

    Radda dismissed rumours of political crises, attributing them to social media misinformation, and confirmed steady progress on infrastructure projects in frontline LGAs such as Danmusa, Faskari, Jibia, Batsari, Kankara, and Dandume.

    Business mogul Alhaji Dahiru Mangal expressed strong support for the governor during the tour, assuring him of re-election in the next general poll.

    The tour also enabled equitable distribution of fertilisers across all 361 wards of the state to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for every community.

    The Katsina State APC Chairman, Alhaji Sani JB Daura, members of the State Executive Council, State House of Assembly and other political leaders accompanied the governor throughout the tour.

  • Radda urges new Defence Minister Musa to intensify military operations against bandits

    Radda urges new Defence Minister Musa to intensify military operations against bandits

    Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has urged the newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), to intensify and sustain military operations against bandits operating in the northwest.

    Radda made the call in a congratulatory message following the minister’s appointment and swearing-in by the President.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula, the governor described Musa’s appointment as strategic and reassuring for the country’s security landscape.

    He said the minister’s extensive military experience, especially his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff, positions him to drive the reforms and operational upgrades needed to combat insecurity nationwide.

    “General Musa’s nomination and confirmation by the Senate come at a critical time when the nation needs experienced, strategic, and decisive leadership in the defence sector. His track record speaks volumes about his capacity to deliver results,” Radda stated.

    The governor expressed confidence that the new minister would introduce fresh approaches and strengthen inter-agency coordination within the security sector. He also called for increased military pressure on bandits in the North-West and stressed the importance of improving welfare and motivation for frontline troops.

    Radda reaffirmed Katsina State’s commitment to supporting national security efforts, noting that initiatives such as the Community Watch Corps were created to complement federal operations.

    “We are ready partners in this fight. Katsina State has created an enabling environment for security agencies, and we look forward to working closely with the Ministry of Defence under General Musa’s leadership,” he said.

  • Radda welcomes opposition members to APC in Katsina

    Radda welcomes opposition members to APC in Katsina

    Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has welcomed card-carrying members of the opposition parties who stormed Government House in to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    The new entrants drawn from the PDP, Action Alliance, PRP, PDM and other political parties, cut across three local government areas Funtua, Bakori and Dandume.

    The list of defectors to APC also include former governorship candidates, members of the House of Representatives, past local government chairmen, former party leaders, ex-councillors and some members of their former party executives.

    Addressing the gathering, Governor Radda emphasised that political unity was essential for consolidating democratic gains and driving meaningful development. 

    He also noted that Katsina had not experienced the level of political harmony recorded in the Funtua zone for many years.

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    The Governor further directed APC leaders to fully integrate the new members into party activities and allow influential figures among the defectors to assume leadership roles.

    He further appealed to stakeholders to strengthen inclusiveness at all levels.

    Radda particularly commended Senator Muntari Dandutse, Commissioner for Health Dr. Musa Adamu Funtua and other notable personalities whose efforts and consultations influenced the wave of defections. 

    He urged other APC stakeholders across the state to emulate their examples. 

  • Protect environment, promote culture, traditions, Radda charges at Hawan Barki

    Protect environment, promote culture, traditions, Radda charges at Hawan Barki

    Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has charged residents to protect their environment as well as promote their culture and traditions 

    Radda, who gave the charge in Katsina during the 2025 ”Hawan Bariki” as part of the.yearly Sallah celebration, described the occasion as a deeply symbolic moment which reaffirmed the state’s cultural identity, resilience, and commitment to peace and truth. 

    The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari, further stated the annual cultural homage is not just a festive gathering but a powerful reminder of the values that bind Katsina’s people together.

    He said: ”Our strength lies in our heritage and in our people,we are not just showcasing tradition; we are strengthening our identity. We are not just celebrating the past; we are calling forth a future of peace, partnership, and progress.”

    ”I call on citizens of Katsina state, to uphold sanitation practices, especially with the onset of the rainy season, residents should stop dumping refuse in waterways. 

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    ”We will also not condone illegal logging and encroachment into forest reserves and grazing routes. A task force has been empowered to enforce environmental laws, while a special court has been established to punish offenders..

    “The environment is a shared trust. Protecting it is not optional; it is our duty,” 

    The Governor also raised alarm over the growing trend of drug abuse among youths and appealed to parents, religious leaders and traditional institutions to intensify awareness campaigns. 

    The Emir of Katsina, Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, called on citizens to uphold truth, peace and compassion, warning against envy and bitterness.

    He said: ”This is not just a festival of horses and drums, It is our soul speaking, it is about truth, dignity, and shared humanity.”

     Royal drums echoed through out the streets with dazzling horse displays and children waving flags with joy. Katsina once again affirmed itself as a state that is proud of her history and hopeful for its future.

  • Governor Radda condoles Niger, Kano states over flood, fatal accident

    Governor Radda condoles Niger, Kano states over flood, fatal accident

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the governments and people of Niger and Kano states following two recent tragedies, the devastating flood in Mokwa and a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of 22 athletes from Kano.

    Describing the Mokwa flooding, triggered by heavy rainfall that submerged the town’s commercial centre, as a tragic natural disaster, Governor Radda said it had caused immense pain and hardship to the affected communities.

    “The news of the Mokwa flood disaster deeply grieves us all,” he stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unfortunate incident.”

    He also sympathised with the government and people of Kano State over the loss of young athletes, calling the accident a heartbreaking tragedy.

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    “Natural disasters is a reminder of our shared vulnerability and the importance of standing together during times of crisis. Katsina State stands in complete solidarity with her Niger State brothers and sisters during this difficult period”

    Radda also emphasized the need for enhanced flood management systems and disaster preparedness measures across northern Nigeria, particularly as the rainy season intensifies.

    He offered fervent prayers for the souls of the departed, asking Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings and grant them Aljannatul Firdaos.

    While condoling his Kano State counterpart, Governor Radda described the tragic road accident which claimed the lives of 22 sporting athletes returning to Kano from the National Sports festival in Ogun state,as ”painful and monumental.”

    He said, ”The unfortunate incident is a devastating blow to Nigeria’s sporting community and a painful loss that has left the entire nation in mourning ”

    ”the news of this tragic accident has deeply saddened us all,these young athletes represented the hopes and dreams of their families,  communities, Kano state and Nigeria.”

  • Tinubu mourns passing of Katsina governor’s mother

    Tinubu mourns passing of Katsina governor’s mother

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umaru Radda, following the passing of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Baribari.

    The late matriarch, who lived to the age of 93, passed away on Saturday night, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness and community service.

    In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Hajiya Safara’u as a woman who nurtured generations of leaders who went on to excel in various fields. 

    He noted that her life was marked by integrity and a deep commitment to serving others, values that have influenced many far beyond her immediate community.

    The President prayed for the repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant her Jannatul Firdaus, while also offering prayers for strength and comfort for her family during this period of mourning.

    “President Bola Tinubu condoles with the Katsina State governor, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda, on the passing of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Baribari.

    “The 93-year-old matriarch died in the late hours of Saturday.

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    “President Tinubu describes the deceased nonagenarian as a selfless woman who had nurtured generations of leaders who excelled in different endeavours.

     “The President says Hajiya Safara’u has left behind a legacy of integrity and community service that has permeated far and near. 

    “President Tinubu beseeched Almighty Allah to grant her Jannatul Firdaus and comfort her family during this time of grief”, the statement said.

  • APC’s historic victory in Katsina

    APC’s historic victory in Katsina

    By Ibrahim Mohammed

    “To lead or not to lead, Radda leads indeed.” This was exactly what Governor Dikko Umaru Radda encapsulated during the historic local government elections in Katsina on the 15th of February 2025. While many leaders and political actors might choose not to conduct truly democratic local government polls, Radda has shown that what makes an authentic and selfless leader is embracing democratic processes, even at the grassroots level.

    At first, the news was all over the internet that the governor, alongside his wife and family members, cast their ballots at the designated Polling 010 Barebari A of Radda Ward in Charanchi local government. Of course, that might not make news to some folks, but in the real sense, that’s a leader leading by example. He started the mobilization on the need for people to exercise their franchise right from his roof. Applaudissements!

    Readers? On this LG election, I started my mathematics before the elections proper, while the election was still ongoing I still had my notes handy and shortly after the State Independent Electoral Commission declared (APC) candidates as winners of the 34 local government areas of Katsina and the 361 wards councillor. I deem it expedient to share my 10 key takeaways from the elections with Katsinawa and, of course, political observers across the globe. Of particular note is how Governor Radda led APC to the historic victory.

    First, Governor Radda, as the numero uno of the state, actively participated in the electoral process by voting at his designated polling unit in Charanchi Local Government. The governor’s hands-on involvement sends a strong message on the importance of civic engagement and how the governor is much more ready for grassroots democracy.

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    The unprecedented transition of power from one elected local government administration to another in Katsina State’s history is the second takeaway in the state’s democratic journey. I strongly believe this will interest political observers and advocates of good governance. This was made possible by Radda. He’s broken new ground and established lasting democratic traditions.

    Now, let’s talk about the participation in the election. The massive turnout of voters across the state, including high-profile political figures such as former President Muhammadu Buhari, former governors Alhaji Ibrahim Shema and Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, and government functionaries, validates the credibility of the electoral process. When you take a deeper look into this broad participation, you will agree that Governor Radda has built trust in the state’s democratic institutions. Every leader sees the need to exercise their franchise, not minding local, state, or national elections.

    More so, the involvement of traditional rulers, district heads, and village heads in the electoral process shows Governor Radda has successfully bridged the gap between modern democratic institutions and traditional governance structures. Importantly, this integration is crucial for the acceptance and success of democratic processes at the grassroots level.

    The fifth takeaway I have noted from the onset is the Governor’s strong emphasis on compliance with electoral laws and regulations. This ensures primary elections were conducted ten months prior to the election proper. This, on a part, is in tandem with the Electoral Act. And politically, as the number one citizen of the state, the governor is the leader of the party, and whatever action is taken, his head will surely be called. The governor ensured that the party followed procedural foundations for democracy to stand. If you see His Excellency tomorrow and call him “Malam Due Process,” that’s never a mismatch. You have justifiable reasons for that.

    Moving forward to the sixth takeaway, the peaceful and orderly nature of the elections, free from violence and disruptions, is worthy of praise. Can we see Governor Radda is a good manager?  As the Chief Security Officer, his effective security management and political maturity were on display throughout the election, and it goes on like that. However, this achievement is particularly noteworthy given the security challenges faced by states in the northwest region, Katsina included.

    So, a day after the election, the governor had a dialogue with the local government elections organizing committee chaired by Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe. At the meeting, Radda announced the introduction of an Inspectorate Department and the plan to appoint a Special Adviser for transparency at the local level. Well, one of the key attributes of a good leader known to me is the ability to make decisions confidently and plan ahead. Radda is not waiting until there are foul plays in the management of resources meant for the local government before setting up this watchdog committee. Also, on several occasions, the governor has given his stance on local government autonomy. One thing I am very certain about is the governor’s commitment to ensuring accountability in the use of public resources, and one of the cornerstones to get that done is this. Let’s do it together with Radda.

    Again, for development projects at the grassroots to reflect the community’s needs and priorities. Radda, the game changer, established the Community Development Program with community-level committees. Even though this has been brought to life before the election, but certainly it will certainly aid participatory governance.

    Take together the last two takeaways. During the election, there was a cohesive participation of All Progressives Congress (APC) members and the opposition parties. That’s to tell the world the election was not a one-man show. Every sane mind exercised their franchise in line with the constitutional provision. Lastly, media outlets and observers from within the country and outside were given room to freely participate in the election. I am cocksure that their recommendations and experience of the conduct of the election will further strengthen our democracy and leave Katsina in a good book.

    This, therefore, takes me back to the opening phrase, “To lead or not to lead, Radda has indeed shown that effective leadership at the state level will give a helping hand to grassroots democracy and good governance. Then, only a game changer like Radda can do that. Writing a new narrative. Governor Radda owns Katsinawa more fascinating developments, and when the time is right, he’ll let them out from the “Building Your Future” agenda.

    • Mohammed is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State.

  • Katsina faults loan conditions for MSMEs

    Katsina faults loan conditions for MSMEs

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda yesterday said the Micro Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) is struggling with accessing affordable financing due to stringent loan conditions and lack of tailored financial products.

    He explained that the state major challenge is difficulty in accessing finance, having limited access to business development services (BDS) including limited access to advisory services and business support for MSMEs.

    The governor disclosed this at the Katsina MSME Stakeholders roundtable in Abuja, noting that there are critical gaps in data distribution which is making it difficult to formulate targeted interventions by measuring their impact, and effective plans for growth.

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    “These challenges include, lack of market access and linkages, lack of access to broader markets and restriction of their ability to scale and compete with other states. There is also skills gap and capacity constraint.  A significant portion of our workforce lack the skills to thrive in today’s economy.

    “There is the absence of institutionalized MSME Support, with no dedicated structure to coordinate MSME activities which leads to fragmented support ecosystem. These again includes poor infrastructure and unfriendly business environment, the absence of critical infrastructure, alongside regulatory hurdles has limited the potential of many small enterprises,” the governor said.

    According to him, the state’s vision for MSMEs development is rooted in the belief that a vibrant MSMEs sector is the key to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and long-term prosperity the governor noted, adding that there should be a dynamic ecosystem where businesses can thrive, innovate, and compete not only locally but globally. This approach should be based on creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, facilitating access to finance, fostering skills development, and providing the infrastructure needed to unlock the full potential of our people.

  • Katsina gov presents N682.2bn budget to Assembly

    Katsina gov presents N682.2bn budget to Assembly

    Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has presented a proposed budget of N682.2 billion for the 2025 fiscal year to the Katsina State House of Assembly.

    Tagged the “Budget of Resilience and Growth,” the proposal reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of the people.

    While presenting the budget, Radda highlighted its focus on critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure, alongside robust plans for security and social welfare.

    The budget allocates N157.97 billion (23.15%) for recurrent expenditure and N524.27 billion (76.85%) for capital projects. 

    Governor Radda noted that the proposed budget represents a significant 40% increase from the 2024 budget, adding an extra N200.54 billion.

    The Recurrent revenue is projected at N381.34 billion, with components including: FAAC Allocations of N316.91 billion, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) which stands at N64.43 billion, reflecting a 36.9 per cent, increase from 2024, and Capital receipts, estimated at N280.91 billion, consist of aids and grants of about N126.48 billion as well as Capital Development Fund (CDF) Receipts of N154.42 billion

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    Governor Radda also outlined the allocations to key sectors, allocating the economic sector with N302.25 billion representing 44.3 per cent, N275.55  billion  to the social sector, representing 40.4 per cent, while the administration sector got N98.28 billion  with 14.4 per cent, the Law and Justice sector has N6.24 billion with 0.9 per cent .

    He further expressed confidence in the legislative arm, urging timely review and approval of the budget to enable quick implementation.

    He assured the Assembly of the Executive’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating, “We remain prudent in our activities and sincere in discharging our duties. 

    This budget reflects the aspirations of our people, and we rely on your collaborative engagement to fine-tune and approve it swiftly.”

    The governor also extended his gratitude to the judiciary, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and development partners for their continuous support in addressing the challenges facing Katsina State.