Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has described the 2025 Hawan Bariki celebration as a deeply symbolic moment—one that reaffirms the state’s cultural identity, resilience, and commitment to peace and truth.
Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari, the Governor said the annual cultural homage is not just a festive gathering, but a powerful reminder of the values that bind Katsina’s people together.
“Our strength lies in our heritage and in our people,” Governor Radda said, while addressing dignitaries, traditional leaders, and thousands of excited residents at the Old Government House, Katsina. “We are not just showcasing tradition; we are strengthening our identity. We are not just celebrating the past; we are calling forth a future of peace, partnership, and progress.”
Governor Radda used the occasion to call on citizens to uphold sanitation practices, especially with the onset of the rainy season. He urged residents to stop dumping refuse in waterways and warned against illegal logging and encroachment into forest reserves and grazing routes. A task force has been empowered to enforce environmental laws, while a special court has been established to punish offenders.
“The environment is a shared trust. Protecting it is not optional; it is our duty,” the Governor said. He also raised alarm over the growing trend of drug abuse among youth, appealing to parents, religious leaders, and traditional institutions to intensify awareness campaigns. “We must take decisive action to combat this menace that is endangering our youths and the future of our communities,” he stressed.
In his Sallah goodwill message, Governor Radda congratulated Muslims on the celebration of Eid el-Kabir and reminded them of the lessons of obedience, sacrifice, and devotion as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma’il. He extended special greetings to Katsina pilgrims performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia and prayed for the acceptance of their acts of worship and safe return.
The Governor also commended security agencies for their relentless work in protecting lives and property. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving security, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and youth development. “We are determined to work harder and deliver lasting impact across the state,” he noted.
Governor Radda concluded with a heartfelt prayer: “May Allah accept our acts of worship, grant us abundant blessings, and sustain peace in our communities. Allah Ya ba mu lafiya da zaman lafiya, Allah Ya ba mu Damina mai albarka.
The Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, added spiritual weight to the occasion, declaring, “Even if the sky falls on me, if I see the truth, I will speak it.” He called on citizens to uphold truth, peace, and compassion, warning against envy and bitterness.
“This is not just a festival of horses and drums,” the Emir said. “It is our soul speaking — it is about truth, dignity, and shared humanity.”
As royal drums echoed through the streets, with dazzling horse displays and children waving flags with joy, Katsina once again affirmed itself as a state proud of its history and hopeful for its future. The atmosphere was vibrant yet solemn — with prayers offered for peace, security, and prosperity across the state.
Among the dignitaries at the event were Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, Head of Service, Falalu Bawale ,Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Abba Jaye, members of the State Executive Council, Katsina State House of Assembly members, traditional titles holders, and district heads.
About The Author
