KATSINA STATE AT 39: GOVERNOR RADDA SALUTES CITIZENS, HIGHLIGHTS DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS
Katsina State has marked the 39th anniversary of its creation, with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda congratulating citizens at home and in the diaspora and highlighting ongoing efforts to advance development across the state.
Katsina was created on September 23, 1987, and Governor Radda described the anniversary as an opportunity to recognise the resilience, sacrifices and contributions of generations of citizens who have helped shape the state.
Radda said Katsina is “moving forward with purpose,” while acknowledging that the state still has significant work ahead. He said his administration’s “Building Your Future” agenda is focused on key areas including security, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, economic empowerment, public-sector reform and sustainable development.
Development across key sectors
According to the governor, the administration is seeking to bring government interventions closer to residents across the state’s 34 local government areas.
In education, the state government has reported substantial investment, including the construction and rehabilitation of schools, the development of smart and model secondary schools, expansion of digital learning facilities and support for teachers and students. The government reported in May that more than ₦120 billion had been committed to education since the administration took office.
Healthcare is another area highlighted by the administration. Reported interventions include the upgrading of healthcare facilities, improvements to specialist hospitals and the expansion of diagnostic and dialysis services.
Agriculture also remains central to Katsina’s development strategy. The administration has reported investments in mechanised farming, including tractors, combine harvesters and other agricultural equipment, alongside efforts to improve access to farming support across the state’s local government areas.
Infrastructure and economic empowerment
Radda also pointed to road construction, urban renewal, solar street lighting and other infrastructure projects as part of efforts to improve living conditions and stimulate economic activity.
The state government has additionally pursued initiatives aimed at supporting young people, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and small businesses, with the stated objective of creating greater opportunities for residents to become economically productive and self-reliant.
In July, the state Executive Council approved 20.37 kilometres of township roads, alongside flood-control projects in 37 communities and measures to strengthen water supply.
Security remains a priority
On security, Governor Radda acknowledged the challenges still facing some communities. He said the state would continue working with security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents to protect lives and property and promote lasting peace.
The administration has combined security operations with community-based initiatives and programmes intended to address some of the socioeconomic conditions associated with insecurity.
A call for collective responsibility
Beyond celebrating government achievements, Radda used the anniversary to call for greater citizen participation in the state’s development.
He urged traditional and religious leaders, professionals, farmers, business owners, women, young people and members of the diaspora to contribute to initiatives promoting peace, education, enterprise and community development.
The governor also paid tribute to previous leaders, traditional institutions, public servants, security personnel and ordinary citizens whose contributions have shaped Katsina since its creation.
As Katsina enters its 40th year, Radda said the anniversary should serve not only as a reflection on the state’s journey but also as an opportunity to strengthen efforts towards a future where children have access to quality education, farmers can prosper, businesses can grow and communities can enjoy greater security and opportunities.