….Emir of Katsina Urges Citizens Cooperation with Government
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has declared that public service must be measured by its impact on ordinary people, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, inclusive development, and institutional reform.
The Governor made this known at the 2026 Hawan sarki, popularly known as Hawan Bariki held at the State Government House, Katsina.
The colourful durbar attracted seventeen European Union diplomats, traditional rulers, top government officials, and thousands of residents. Horse riders from 28 districts paraded in a display of Katsina’s rich cultural heritage, symbolising honour, unity, and traditional leadership.
In his address, Governor Radda said: “Today is not just a day of celebration, but a moment of reflection. Leadership is a trust, power is a responsibility, and public service must be measured by its impact on the lives of the people.”
“Hawan Sarki is more than a ceremony. It is a reflection of our history, our identity, and the unity of our people. It reminds us of the values that define us — faith, honour, compassion, courage, and service,” he said.
Welcoming the diplomats, the Governor noted: “Their presence reflects growing global confidence in Katsina State and our peaceful cultural heritage.”
On security, Radda said his administration deploys both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
“Security is not only about weapons and deployments. It is about trust, intelligence, community participation, and moral responsibility. We established the Katsina Community Watch Corps to strengthen grassroots security,” he stated, adding that his government would not abandon the people to violence.
Highlighting governance achievements, the Governor said the 2026 budget was built entirely on community needs assessments, with each of the 361 communities receiving over ₦10 million to address priority needs.
On infrastructure, he said key road projects including the dualisation of major roads in Katsina, Funtua, and Daura had been completed, while rural road networks were being expanded to connect farmers to markets.
In agriculture, Radda disclosed that his administration distributed 40,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser annually at subsidised rates and procured over 400 tractors across the 34 local government areas.
On education, the Governor said three model schools were established, over 85 secondary schools completed, and more than 7,000 teachers recruited. In health, he commissioned a world-class dialysis centre and is completing a state-of-the-art imaging facility, while upgrading over 250 primary healthcare centres.
He also revealed that the administration cleared over ₦45 billion in pension liabilities and introduced digital systems to improve governance efficiency and transparency.
“The true test of leadership is whether it improves the lives of ordinary people — farmers, students, workers, and the vulnerable. We will continue to build, reform, listen, and act in the best interest of our people,” the Governor concluded.
Earlier, the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, urged citizens to remain disciplined, law-abiding, and united. “Peace and development depend on cooperation, mutual respect, and collective responsibility,” he said.
The Emir commended Governor Radda’s leadership, noting that true governance is measured by safer communities, improved livelihoods, and renewed hope for the people.
He also appreciated the presence of the international diplomats, describing it as a reflection of Katsina’s peaceful and dignified traditions.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abdullahi Garba Faskari; the Head of Service, Alhaji Falalu Bawale; and other top government officials, traditional rulers, and dignitaries.
The colour celebration was equally graced by Wives of the Governor, Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda and Hajiya Fatima Dikko Radda; wife of the Deputy Governor, Hajiya Asmau Faruk; and the wife of the Speaker, Hajiya Safa Yahaya Daura.
