Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has extended hearty congratulations to the people of Katsina State on the occasion of New Year, expressing confidence that the security challenges facing the state will soon become a thing of the past.
In his New Year message, Governor Radda acknowledged that while insecurity remains a national concern, the ‘Building Your Future’ administration has implemented robust measures since assuming office to combat this challenge.
The Governor recalled the launching of the second batch of Katsina State Community Watch Corps, provision of vehicles and other sophisticated gadgets to the security agencies, which indicates the state’s commitment to ending banditry attacks.
“Our administration has made significant strides across key sectors in 2024,” Governor Radda noted.
“We’ve transformed our educational sector through substantial investments in school rehabilitation, teacher development, and equipment procurement.
Our commitment to technological advancement is evident in the scholarship awards to 68 students pursuing Artificial Intelligence and biotechnology studies in China.”
The Governor highlighted the administration’s agricultural revolution, noting that over 30,000 farmers received crucial farm inputs and assets, which also earn the state a recognition from the Federal Government for recording 99.75% success in dry season wheat cultivation. “Our agricultural initiatives have not only boosted productivity but have also strengthened our food security position,” he stated.
In the health sector, Governor Radda emphasized Katsina’s achievement as the state with the highest number of functional health institutions in Nigeria, totaling 1,751 facilities, with over 85% operational. Notably, five of our primary healthcare centres have been upgraded to general hospitals while construction works are ongoing on others.
“Through strategic investments in healthcare personnel development, infrastructure, and equipment, we’ve significantly improved healthcare access for our citizens and make the state a destination for health tourists,” he added.
The Governor also detailed the administration’s urban renewal initiatives, including the completed dualization of Kofar Soro-Kofar Guga Road and the installation of solar street lights in the state capital. Flag off of the Funtua urban renewal project and the launching of Community Development Programme which empowered residents to participate in local project planning and supervision.
The governor pointed out that government performed wonderfully with the 2024 budget as 69% implementation success was achieved.
He Further said , “in line with the government’s agenda to reduce cost of governance, the 2025 approved Budget was tailored to reflect that agenda”.
Commendably, 77.81% is allocated for Capital Projects while unprecedentedly, only 22.82% is allocated for Recurrent Expenditure thereby allowing more attention for improving or where necessary providing critical infrastructure.
“As we step into 2025, we will commission several landmark infrastructure projects, which includes but not limited, Eastern Bypass Road, Dual Carriageway from Dutsinma Road to Yandaki Town, Shargalle-Dutsi-Ingawa Road, the Imaging Centre at General Amadi Rimi Orthopaedic Hospital among others,” the Governor highlighted.
Our focus remains on improved security, enhanced public services, and sustained development across all sectors,” Governor Radda pledged. “Success requires the sustained support and vigilance of every citizen.”
The Governor praised the resilience of Katsina residents and their cooperation with security agencies, particularly in intelligence sharing. “Together, we shall overcome security challenges and continue building a better future for Katsina State,” he concluded.
