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  • Tinubu’s re-election’ ll enable LGs deliver more dividends of democracy — Radda 

    Tinubu’s re-election’ ll enable LGs deliver more dividends of democracy — Radda 

    Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State says Nigerians re-electing President Bola Tinubu in 2027 will enable the States and Local Government Councils in the country to continue to deliver more dividends of democracy in their respective areas.

    Radda gave the assurance on Monday at a gathering for his endorsement and that of President Bola Tinubu and for a second term organised by the Concerned Katsina APC Stakeholders.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Senators, House of Reps. Members, members of the State House of Assembly, LG Chairmen, former governors of the state, Alhaji Aminu Masari and Alhaji Ibrahim Shema, Katsina elders, among others, announced their endorsement.

    Radda said that since the time president assumed office, he has been releasing funds to the LGs to enable them move their respective areas forward.

    The Governor said that some people have been saying so many things against the previous administrations, including Tinubu, but “our concern is what will bring development to the country.

    “People of Katsina are happy with what we have been doing. But are doing that because of the funds he has been releasing to the states and the LGs.

    “This endorsement will give us more encouragement to continue to do more to the people. I assured you that we will not disappoint you,” he assured.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Concerned APC Stakeholders, Sen. Ibrahim Ida, said their decision was sequel to the leadership quality displayed by Tinubu and Radda.

    He said that their commitment had led to the improved quality of life of the citizens within two-and-a-half years.

    Read Also: Radda orders renovation of NYSC camp facilities

    Ida, therefore, called on the electorate to come out en masse to vote for Tinubu and Radda in 2027 General Elections.

    Also speaking, the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibril, said that he had been to all the states of the federation and to his assessment, Radda was among the hard-working Governors in the country.

    He said that was what qualified him for the re-election, saying that the endorsement was timely.

    Jibril said that currently, 29 states belonged to the APC, pointing out that the party was gaining more recognition because of what Tinubu has been doing to improve the living condition of the citizens and develop the country.

    In his remarks, the APC National Chairman, Mr Nentawe Yilwatda, expressed delight over the way members from other political parties were joining APC.

    He commended Radda for transforming the state and further said that he has seen good roads, schools, health facilities, drinking water, provided to improve the living condition of the citizens.

    The national chairman further urged the governor to keep up the good work for the development of the entire state.

    (NAN)

  • 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 witnessing improved security, NYSC-friendly, says Radda

    ‘Katsina witnessing improved security, NYSC-friendly, says Radda

    Katsina Governor Dikko Umar Radda has declared the State is NYSC friendly and experiencing improved security. 

    The Governor spoke during the swearing in of 945 prospective Corps members In Katsina Orientation Camp.

    The Governor was represented by his Deputy Faruk Lawal Jobe  at the Swearing in Ceremony.

    Katsina Chief Judge Justice Musa Abubakar Danladi also administered the oath of allegiance on the prospective corps members. 

    Radda assured the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream I Corps members deployed to the State, a conducive and a secured environment, urging them to be free, focused and ready to serve their father land stressing that Katsina is home of hospitality and heritage.

    Read Also: Radda begins distribution of 1,100 motorcycles, drilling machines

    NYSC Katsina State Coordinator Alhaji Ibrahim Saidu announced the Governor  has  approved  the renovation of the Male Hostels, as well as  Staff Quarters and the  provision of mattresses and plastic chairs.

    Former NYSC Director General,  Brig General M.I Tsigah; Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development Eng. Surajo Azeed  Abukur, Head Of Civil Service of the State Alhaji Yahuza Saleh Ibrahim; Permanent Secretary Mohammed Mohammed, The Commander 17 brigade of the  Nigeria Army attended the ceremony 

  • Radda flags off N21bn life, death benefits for Katsina workers

    Radda flags off N21bn life, death benefits for Katsina workers

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, on Monday in Katsina launched the disbursement of N21 billion in accrued liabilities for life and death benefits to state and local government workers.

    The ceremony, held at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, marked payments covering entitlements up to October 2025. With this phase, the state government has now released a total of N45.89 billion to 14,560 beneficiaries across state, local government, and local education authority levels since the administration assumed office.

    Radda reiterated that addressing pension arrears was a central priority even before he contested for governor, stressing the importance of treating retirees with dignity. 

    He noted that the State and Local Government Pension Reform Committee had verified a total liability of N23.99 billion as of August 2023, comprising N10.35 billion for state staff and N13.64 billion for local government and local education authority workers.

    He stated that since inception, N18.56 billion has been approved for 4,743 state beneficiaries, while N27.33 billion has been released for 9,817 beneficiaries at the local government and education authority levels.

    The governor also announced the signing of the New Contributory Pension Law 2025, describing it as a landmark reform designed to align the pension system with global best practices, eliminate administrative delays, and ensure prompt payment of benefits. 

    He inaugurated the Katsina State Pension Bureau, chaired by Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi, and the Katsina State Pension Transition Board, chaired by Alhaji Garba Sanda, to drive the implementation of the new scheme.

    He disclosed that, as of December 31, 2025, the Pension Bureau had collected more than N19 billion in combined employer and employee contributions and generated over N668 million in investment income since June 2025.

    Radda commended the state’s civil service for its professionalism and efficiency, assuring workers of continuous improvements in welfare, timely promotions, and expanded training opportunities. 

    He also highlighted the revitalisation of the Local Government Service Commission to guarantee full career development for local government workers.

    Earlier, the Head of Civil Service, Mallam Falalu Bawale, commended the governor for releasing N46 billion to settle long-standing gratuity liabilities owed to retired and deceased civil servants. 

    He assured that workers across the state would reciprocate through commitment to duty and support for the administration’s development initiatives.

    The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Katsina State, Comrade Hussaini Hamisu Yanduna, also lauded the governor for demonstrating strong political will and prioritising workers’ welfare.

  • Army lauds Radda for renovating 12 corporal  quarters in Katsina barracks

    Army lauds Radda for renovating 12 corporal  quarters in Katsina barracks

    The Nigerian Army has commended Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, for renovating and remodelling the ensuite blocks of 12 family quarters at the Corporal Below Quarters (CBQ), Natsinta Army Barracks, Katsina.

    Governor Radda commissioned the renovated quarters when he joined Christian communities of the Nigerian Army in the barracks to celebrate Christmas.

    The Governor lauded the efforts of the 17 Brigade in safeguarding lives and property in the state, attributing the relative peace being enjoyed in Katsina to the dedication and sacrifice of security personnel. 

    According to him, the cordial relationship between the state government and security agencies has contributed significantly to the security successes recorded so far.

    Radda also appreciated the families of military personnel for their support and sacrifices, noting that the commitment of soldiers to their constitutional duties would not be possible without the backing of their loved ones. 

    He further renewed his condolences to the families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting citizens of the state.

    As part of the Christmas celebration, the Governor announced a donation of ₦10 million to Christian families residing in the barracks as a goodwill gesture.

    In his remarks, the Commander of 17 Brigade, Katsina, Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, thanked Governor Radda for funding the renovation and remodelling of the CBQ. 

    He described the project as a step towards improving the welfare and standard of living of troops and their families.

    Read Also: Army foils planned attack, neutralises bandits, recovers weapons

    “This project is geared towards enhancing the standard of living of troops and their families. The Governor’s gesture aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of advancing the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, combat-ready and resilient force,” he said.

    Brigadier General Omopariola also acknowledged the Governor’s goodwill towards the military, expressing appreciation for his presence at the barracks to share in the Christmas festivities with Christian communities. 

    He urged beneficiaries of the renovated quarters to take ownership of the facilities, use them responsibly and maintain a high sense of dedication and commitment.

    In a related development, Governor Radda paid a visit to leaders of Christian communities in the state, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sensitising Christian faithful on the need for cooperation with the state government. 

    The Christian leaders, in turn, commended the Governor for his inclusive leadership style and for carrying all citizens along irrespective of religious differences

  • 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.

  • Radda swears in three new Judges in Katsina

    Radda swears in three new Judges in Katsina

    Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has sworn in three new Judges of the Katsina State High Court, urging them to uphold public trust with integrity, fairness and the fear of God.

    The newly appointed Judges are: Barrister Maryam Umaru Abdullahi, Barrister Shamsuddeen Abdurrahman Ƴammama and Barrister Abubakar Muhammad Dikko.

    The swearing-in ceremony at the Government House, Katsina was attended by dignitaries from the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial arms of government, as well as members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers and family members of the appointees.

    Radda described the swearing-in as “a remarkable milestone in the state’s judicial history,” noting the appointment of the new Judges would strengthen the judiciary and enhance effective justice delivery across Katsina State.

    He congratulated the new Judges and commended the State Judicial Service Commission for conducting a thorough and merit-based selection process that produced credible and qualified appointees.

    Radda also expressed confidence that the new Judges will contribute meaningfully to the administration of justice in the state, given their impressive qualifications and years of professional experience.

    He said: “Everyone looks up to you for justice—both those who have a voice and those who do not. Especially those who do not. I believe your position will guide you to the right path if you perform your duties with diligence and sincerity,” 

    Radda prayed for divine wisdom, patience and strength for the judges to carry out their duties with fairness, courage, and humility.

    He assured that his administration will continue to support the judiciary and the legislature to ensure harmony and effective collaboration among the three arms of government.

    He also emphasized the importance of timely justice delivery, warning that delays in judgment could weaken public trust in the judicial system.

  • Radda: community-driven peace model restoring calm in Katsina

    Radda: community-driven peace model restoring calm in Katsina

    • No negotiations with bandits

    Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a community-led approach to peacebuilding, describing it as the most effective strategy in tackling banditry and restoring stability across the state.

    Speaking yesterday at the commissioning of 100 new officers of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), Radda said the initiative — launched two years ago — has expanded security coverage to 20 of the state’s 34 local government areas and continues to record remarkable success.

    He explained that the “Katsina Model” empowers local communities to take the lead in resolving conflicts by initiating and negotiating peace pacts with repentant bandits willing to lay down their arms.

    “The Katsina Model is a fully community-driven approach. It allows affected communities to initiate peace talks and reconciliation with repentant bandits.

    “The state government’s role is to support, encourage, and maintain law and order in those areas,” the governor said.

    Radda stressed that the initiative is not about negotiating with criminals but about enabling communities to rebuild trust and ensure sustainable peace.

    “Our focus is to ensure that communities enjoying peace also benefit socio-economically, giving our people a dignified existence,” he added.

    Read Also: Radda seeks media partnership, open governance to drive development in Katsina

    The governor cited the successes of the peace accord, noting that Jibia has recorded eight months without a major attack, while Batsari has enjoyed seven months of uninterrupted calm. Similar progress, he said, has been achieved in Danmusa, Safana, Faskari, and Sabuwa local government areas.

    He commended the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Police for their collaboration with the state’s security initiative, which has enhanced intelligence sharing, rapid response, and coordinated field operations.

    Radda also praised traditional and religious leaders for their contributions to mediation and community cohesion, describing them as “pillars of the peace process.”

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, said the state has witnessed a marked reduction in insecurity under Radda’s leadership.

    Major General Junaidu Bindawa (rtd), Chairman of the Standing Committee on the Katsina Community Watch Corps, disclosed that the newly recruited officers received intensive training in community policing, intelligence gathering, and rules of engagement before deployment to Kankia and Dutsin-Ma LGAs.

  • Radda expands security coverage to 20 LGAs to combat banditry in Katsina

    Radda expands security coverage to 20 LGAs to combat banditry in Katsina

    Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has extended security coverage to 20 local government areas as part of intensified efforts to curb the rising wave of banditry across the state.

    Radda made the announcement during the commissioning of 100 newly trained officers of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), bringing the corps’ operations to 20 out of the 34 local government areas in the state.

    Reflecting on his administration’s two-year journey to restore lasting peace, the governor said, “When we launched the Community Watch Corps over two years ago, we were in uncharted territory. The learning curve was steep, and the uncertainty was high. But one thing was certain, our determination to end banditry in Katsina State.”

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    He disclosed that 50 of the new officers would be deployed to Kankia Local Government Area and another 50 to Dutsin-Ma, one of the epicentres of banditry in the state.

    Radda dismissed reports of government negotiations with bandits, clarifying that while his administration would not negotiate with criminals, it supports peace pacts initiated by local communities through the “Katsina Model”, a community-driven approach that encourages repentant bandits to surrender their arms.

    “The role of the state government is to encourage and support the peace process while maintaining law and order. Our focus is to ensure that peaceful communities also benefit socio-economically, giving our people a dignified existence,” he added.

    The governor highlighted the success of community peace initiatives, noting that Jibia has recorded eight months without a major attack, while Batsari has enjoyed seven months of uninterrupted peace. 

    Other local councils, including Danmusa, Safana, Faskari, and Sabuwa, have also witnessed relative calm since adopting the approach.

    Radda commended the Nigerian Air Force, Army, and Police for their collaboration with the state government, saying their synergy has strengthened intelligence sharing, improved response times, and enhanced coordinated operations. 

    He also praised traditional and religious leaders for their roles in promoting community unity and resolving conflicts.

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, commended the governor’s commitment to reducing insecurity, while the Chairman of the Standing Committee on the C-Watch Corps, Major General Junaidu Bindawa (Rtd), said the recruits received intensive training in minor tactics, weapon handling, communication, arrests, community policing, and intelligence gathering.

  • Sanwo-Olu, Sani, Radda, ministers to grace Arewa Think Tank’s lecture on Renewed Hope Agenda

    Sanwo-Olu, Sani, Radda, ministers to grace Arewa Think Tank’s lecture on Renewed Hope Agenda

    A notable northern policy group, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has concluded arrangements to hold its Nigeria Independence Day Anniversary Lecture on October 30, 2025, in Kaduna.

    Among the prominent personalities expected at the event is Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who will deliver the keynote address on the theme: “65 Years of Nigeria’s Independence: The Journey So Far with the Renewed Hope Agenda in View.”

    Other dignitaries expected to grace the occasion include the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, and several serving ministers from the Federal Executive Council.

    According to a statement by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, northern elders, technocrats, and captains of industry will also be in attendance.

    Yakubu explained that the event, earlier scheduled for October 9, 2025, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the planning committee.

    “We have now reached a concrete conclusion that the lecture will hold on the new date, October 30, 2025, at the same venue, the Auditorium Hall of Arewa House, Kaduna,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Prof. Amupitan: 10 quick facts about new INEC chairman

    “We are grateful to our supporters and partners who have stood by us this far, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience the change of date might have caused our esteemed guests.”

    Yakubu noted that President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day address served as a clarion call for Nigerians to rekindle faith in the nation’s limitless potential.

    He said the group aligns with the President’s message of hope, unity, and national rebirth, describing it as the moral compass needed to drive Nigeria’s development at this critical juncture.

    The ATT, he added, firmly believes that national unity remains the foundation for Nigeria’s progress and collective advancement.