The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Katsina

  • Four policemen killed, two injured by bandits in Katsina

    Four policemen killed, two injured by bandits in Katsina

    Suspected bandits on Tuesday ambushed a police patrol van in Katsina, killing four officers and injuring two others.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Deputy Superintendent of Police Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the incident, stating that the incident occurred around 12:45 p.m on Tuesday, when operatives of the 27 Police Mobile Force (PMF) from Guga Camp, were on patrol

    A Police officer, Corporal Usman Isa, who also confirmed the attack, said the assailants captured the policemen, restrained them and shot them at close range.

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    Those killed were identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police Abubakar Abdullahi, Inspector Umar Ahmed and Sergeant Kailani Kabir, and another officer, who died from the injuries he sustained.

    A security source said the attackers made away with the officers’ weapons, including an AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition, a Tokarev pistol loaded with eight rounds, and a long-range rifle.

    Two officers, however, survived the assault but sustained injuries. They are Corporal Daniel Japet, who suffered a fracture, and Corporal Abdulaziz Sani, who is receiving treatment.

    Following the incident, the Area Commander has deployed joint police units alongside troops to the scene to secure the area and pursue the attackers.

    The bodies of the fallen officers have been evacuated to the General Hospital in Funtua for autopsy, while the injured are receiving medical care.

    Police authorities assured the public of their safety, adding that investigations were ongoing as security operations intensify amid renewed concerns over bandit attacks on security personnel.

  • Katsina invests N6.1bn in scholarships for over 174,000 students — Gov Radda

    Katsina invests N6.1bn in scholarships for over 174,000 students — Gov Radda

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has disclosed that his administration has invested N6.1 billion in scholarship awards for no fewer than 174,451 tertiary students, including those studying overseas, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen human capital development.

    Radda made the disclosure during the 17th convocation ceremony of Al-Qalam University, Katsina, where an honorary doctorate degree was conferred on former Governor Aminu Bello Masari.

    He said the state’s extensive investment in scholarships, teacher recruitment, school infrastructure, and skills development is designed to prepare young people academically, morally, and economically to compete in an increasingly globalised world.

    “Education is the most powerful instrument for empowerment and sustainable development. Our administration is committed to laying a solid foundation for learners from basic to tertiary levels,” the governor stated.

    He added that the government’s objective is to ensure pupils receive strong academic and moral grounding from primary and secondary school so they are fully prepared for the demands of higher education and global challenges.

    Radda further revealed that the state has recruited 7,326 teachers, trained more than 20,000 others, renovated and constructed classrooms, established modern schools, and set up skills centres. 

    He also highlighted the creation of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), which aims to equip youths and women with employable and entrepreneurial skills.

    According to the governor, the administration’s focus is not only on issuing certificates but on developing knowledge, skills, and character that will make beneficiaries productive and socially responsible.

    During the convocation ceremony, Radda announced the donation of three brand new vehicles to the overall best graduating student and two outstanding Qur’an memorizers who emerged winners in the Musabaqatul Qur’an (Gwani and Gwana categories).

    He noted that Islam places high value on knowledge and moral uprightness, adding that recognising young Qur’anic scholars promotes the integration of strong religious values with modern education for balanced development.

    The governor commended Al-Qalam University for complementing government efforts in delivering quality education and nurturing morally upright citizens. 

    He recalled that the state government donated the land on which the university is built and recently approved the construction of a perimeter fence to enhance campus security.

    Earlier, the Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, Professor Nasiru Musa Yauri, said the institution has recorded significant progress in teaching, research, and the integration of religious and modern studies.

    Also speaking, former Governor Aminu Masari urged universities to embrace technology and innovation, stressing that education must extend beyond certificates to practical skills and problem-solving capacity.

  • Katsina launches 15 intensive-care ambulances for 24-hour emergency services

    Katsina launches 15 intensive-care ambulances for 24-hour emergency services

    The Katsina state government has launched 15 newly procured, state-of-the-art intensive-care emergency ambulances to support the rollout of round-the-clock emergency healthcare services across the state.

    Investigations by The Nation revealed that the deployment of the ambulances represents a major milestone in Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s ongoing efforts to transform the state’s healthcare sector.

    The newspaper recalled that the Katsina State Executive Council, at its 17th meeting held on November 22 last year, approved the procurement of the ambulances under the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (SEMSAS).

    Each ambulance is fully equipped with modern life-support systems, oxygen supply units, patient monitoring devices, stretchers, and essential resuscitation equipment.

    The vehicles are designed to manage critical emergencies, stabilise patients during transit, and improve response to accidents and disasters across the state.

    The ambulances were formally received at Government House by the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, on behalf of the governor.

    Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Governor Radda described the initiative as another promise fulfilled by his administration.

    He noted that with ongoing construction and rehabilitation of roads across the state, vehicular movement would increase, bringing a corresponding rise in the risk of road accidents.

    “As traffic increases, the risk of accidents also rises, so the government must be fully prepared to respond,” the governor said.

    He explained that the ambulances would operate on a 24-hour basis and be strategically stationed along major highways, in densely populated areas, and within communities to ensure rapid response during emergencies.

    “These units are not just vehicles; they are mobile intensive-care units designed to save lives at the most critical moments. No citizen of Katsina State should lose their life simply because help could not arrive in time,” he added.

    Governor Radda further stressed that his administration is deliberately investing in fully equipped, high-quality ambulances to strengthen emergency healthcare delivery, reduce preventable deaths, and ease pressure on secondary and tertiary health facilities.

    “Our goal is simple — faster response, better care, and a healthier Katsina State. Healthcare must be accessible at all hours, in every part of our state. This initiative brings that vision closer to reality,” he said.

  • Three killed in Katsina youths, security operatives’ clash

    Three killed in Katsina youths, security operatives’ clash

    No fewer than three people lost their lives in a clash on Saturday between security operatives and suspected drug peddlers at Koraman Nayalle, Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters in Katsina.

    The incident was said to have begun when security operatives attempted to arrest one of the peddlers called Uzairu, popularly known as ‘Kuda’ and confiscated his mobile phone and suspected illicit drugs.

    As Kuda mobilised his friends to retrieve his phone from the operatives, the situation escalated into chaos, during which he was shot, and later confirmed dead.

    The confrontation sparked anger and unrest in the area, causing the violence to intensify and eventually leading to the deaths of three people.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that an Outpost of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and some motorcycles were set ablaze.

    The neighbourhood remained tense, with the residents living in fear of further violence, while the authorities were making efforts to restore calm.

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    The NSCDC Public Relations Officer in Katsina, SC Buhari Hamisu, who confirmed the incident, said the situation was now under control.

    He said after the earlier incident, friends of the deceased attempted to destroy another NSCDC and Police outposts at Filin Kanada, but were dispersed.

     According to Hamisu, investigation is ongoing to ascertain the main course of the clash, calling on residents to remain calm.

    Also, the police spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the incident, saying that it escalated during the funeral procession of the deceased on Sunday.

    He further urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid taking the law into their hands.

  • Troops rescue abducted victim, recover cows, motorcycles in Katsina

    Troops rescue abducted victim, recover cows, motorcycles in Katsina

    Troops of the Joint Task Force Faruruwa rescued an abducted person on the Kano–Katsina border yesterday.

    The Army said the victim, Rabiu Halilu, 38, sustained a gunshot wound on his leg during captivity and was evacuated to the JTF Faruruwa Medical Centre, for treatment.

    The troops also recovered three motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing bandits and many cattle believed to have been rustled by the bandits.

    Some of the motorcycles were stained with blood, the Army said.

    Soldiers operating around Yankwada, acting on a tip-off about the movement of the bandits from Daurawa, Kira, Katsina State, advanced towards the Kano axis wHere they were engaged in a gunfight.

    Spokesman of the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Kano, Major Zubair Babatunde, said the troops got knowledge of the bandits’ movement about 1:00 am yesterday.

    “Then the troops operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Yankwada mobilised a patrol to the fringes of the Kano–Katsina border to intercept the suspected bandits.

    Read Also: Radda flags off 2024/2025 bursary, scholarships, reaffirms commitment to education in Katsina

    “On arrival at Ungwan Dogo/Ungwan Tudu, the troops made contact with the armed bandits and engaged them in a fierce gun battle,’’

    he said.

    “The bandits were overpowered and forced to withdraw in disarray towards Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

    “During the encounter, one kidnap victim, identified as 38-year-old Rabiu Alhaji Halilu, was rescued by the troops.

    “The troops remain on high alert, intensifying patrols in the area to prevent further criminal activities and ensure sustained security in border communities,” Babatunde said.

  • First Lady’s RHI empowers 250 Katsina senior citizens with N50m

    First Lady’s RHI empowers 250 Katsina senior citizens with N50m

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 senior citizens in Katsina State with a total of N50 million under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

    The support was provided through the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), which held at the Katsina Government House with the theme “Finding Joy in Old Age.”

    At the event, each of the 250 beneficiaries, drawn from the 34 local government areas of the state, received a cash grant of N200,000. 

    The programme also featured free medical check-ups and the distribution of essential items to the elderly beneficiaries.

    Speaking through the wife of the Katsina State Governor, Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda, the First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to easing the challenges faced by elderly Nigerians.

    She said the social investment programme reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to recognising the invaluable contributions of senior citizens to national development.

    “Through this scheme, we continue to express our gratitude and care for the men and women who laboured to build the Nigeria we are proud of today,” she said.

    According to her, the scheme is designed to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in each of the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, as well as veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).

    She further explained that each state, the FCT and DEPOWA received N50 million, with 250 beneficiaries in each location receiving N200,000 each.

    The First Lady also advised beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, prioritise their health and spend quality time with their families.

  • 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.

  • Katsina police record 125 cases, 22 arrests, charge 108 suspects to court in November

    Katsina police record 125 cases, 22 arrests, charge 108 suspects to court in November

    The Katsina State Police Command has announced significant progress in its crime-fighting efforts, reporting 125 recorded cases, 22 arrests, and the prosecution of 108 suspects in November.

    Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, who gave an update on the command’s activities for November 2025, said the achievements reflect renewed momentum in tackling criminal activities across the state.

    He outlined five major crime categories addressed within the month, including the arrest of seven suspects for culpable homicide and murder, seven arrested for possession of counterfeit currency, four apprehended for rape and unnatural offences, as well as 20 suspects arrested for being in possession of illicit drugs, among others.

    Items recovered and paraded include three AK-47 rifles, 24 rounds of live ammunition, an additional 183 rounds of live ammunition, four motor vehicles—one Toyota Corolla, two Golf cars, and one Peugeot—alongside 32 suspected rustled animals comprising 23 cows and nine sheep, as well as 131 sachets of illicit drugs.

    Despite the progress, DSP Aliyu said the command recognises that more work lies ahead.

    He stated: “We pledge to redouble our efforts and commit to building on these successes to make Katsina State an even safer place for all. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect and serve the community, and we call on all stakeholders to join us in this fight against crime.”

    He expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for his support, and to the state government for its cooperation, which he said has strengthened the command’s ability to curb criminal activities and maintain public safety.

  • Radda lauds NYSC for contribution to Kastina manpower, community development

    Radda lauds NYSC for contribution to Kastina manpower, community development

    Katsina Governor Dikko Radda has lauded the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for posting members to the State to meet its manpower needs and community development. 

    Raadda added the State would not have achieved current level of development in key sectors without the meaningful contributions of NYSC members posted to the State.

    The Governor was speaking at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Katsina, during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘C’ Stream 1 corp members deployed to the State. 

    Represented by the Youth and Sports Development Commissioner, Engineer Suraj Yazid; Radda identified the health and educational sectors as major areas where corp members had made meaningful contributions in the state. 

    He  said: “NYSC members have made much impact in the area of community development services, especially in the rural areas of the State.

     “I wish to place on record our appreciation of the contributions of corp members in Community Development Service (CDS) projects and augmenting the manpower needs in our educational and health sectors”

    “I challenge you therefore to line up to the standard already set by you predecessors to the progress and development of Katsina State and the nation in general.’

    “Let me reiterate that during your stay in this camp and throughout your service year, you are to shun cultism, political as well as religious tolerance or any other form of anti-social behaviour. 

    “You are to be guided by the motto of the National Youth Service Corps’ scheme which is Service to Humanity bearing in mind the Oath of Allegiance you have sworn to uphold.”

    Kastina NYSC coordinator, Ibrahim Saidu said s total of 1,195 corp members had registered for the orientation camp, with 695 of them males and 499 females. 

    Saidu said part of the three week camp would involve training on entrepreneurship skills for self-reliance and economic empowerment for the corp members. 

    He called on the corp members to ensure full participation in the camp’s activities, as doing so would make them prepared for the future ahead of them.

  • BREAKING: Katsina shuts all public schools over security threats

    BREAKING: Katsina shuts all public schools over security threats

    The Katsina State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all public schools across the state following escalating security threats and banditry attacks reported in several communities.

    Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Yusuf Sulaiman Jibia, confirmed the directive on Friday while briefing newsmen in Katsina. 

    He said the measure became necessary to safeguard students and teachers as security agencies implement a new statewide safety strategy for schools.

    Jibia noted that although students are currently writing examinations, protecting lives and property remains the top priority. 

    He described the shutdown as a temporary step that will remain in place pending a comprehensive security review of identified high-risk areas.

    Findings by The Nation indicated that the decision follows recent abductions of secondary school students in Kebbi and Niger States, a development that has heightened anxiety among parents and authorities across the North-West.

    “The state government assures citizens that normal academic activities will resume soon after security assessments are completed and adequate protection measures are put in place,” the Commissioner added.