Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, reaffirmed his deep connection to Dutsinma, describing the town as “a place that shaped my life, my values, and my commitment to public service.” Speaking during a community engagement visit, the Governor expressed gratitude to the people for what he called their “everlasting loyalty and unmatched goodwill.”
“Every time I come back to Dutsinma, I feel the same warmth I felt growing up here,” he said. “This town is not just a location on the map — it is a home whose people have stood by me from the beginning, and I remain eternally grateful.”
Governor Radda commended the Executive Chairman of Dutsinma Local Government, Hon. Abdulsalam Shema, for rolling out a wide-reaching empowerment programme targeted at residents across the council. The initiative included the distribution of 11 motor vehicles and ₦30,000 each to 500 beneficiaries, alongside additional tools designed to strengthen household income and boost local entrepreneurship.
“This empowerment programme is a clear demonstration of leadership that listens and leadership that responds,” the Governor said. “When we empower families, we strengthen the entire community.”
He also acknowledged the generosity of Alhaji Ibrahim Marketer, whose personal intervention supported another 500 beneficiaries with ₦20,000 each. Governor Radda described the gesture as “an act of humanity and community spirit that reflects the highest values of Dutsinma.”
“In moments when people need support the most, it is these acts of kindness that restore hope and complement government policies,” he added.
In his remarks, Barrister Ibrahim Shehu Shema praised the Governor for maintaining what he called “a living relationship with the soil that raised him.” Shema noted that Radda’s frequent visits and developmental interventions clearly show that “the Governor’s heart never left Dutsinma.”
“It is rare for leaders to maintain such genuine emotional ties to their origins,” Shema observed. “His love for this town is not symbolic — it is practical, visible, and deeply rooted in service.”
Shema also highlighted Dutsinma’s historical relevance, recalling that the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua spent part of his early education in the town. “Dutsinma has produced leaders who appreciate humility and community service,” he said. “Governor Radda is continuing that legacy.”
Later in the day, Governor Radda met with key stakeholders of the town — including religious leaders, community elders, political leaders, youth groups, and women representatives — in what participants described as one of the most constructive engagements held in recent times.
Speaking on behalf of the gathering, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Bashir Tanimu, welcomed the Governor home and reaffirmed the community’s unwavering loyalty to his administration.
“Your Excellency, this is your home. Your people are proud of your leadership, proud of your humility, and proud of the results you are delivering across Katsina State,” he said.
Hon. Tanimu also reminded the Governor of the earlier federal approval granted for the upgrade of Dutsinma General Hospital to a Federal Teaching Hospital, stressing that the development is crucial given the presence of a Federal University Dutsinma has offered MBBS and Nursing programmes.
“We appeal to you, Sir, to help fast-track the outstanding federal clearance,” he said. “Our population is growing, and the demand for advanced healthcare services is rising.”
Tanimu further commended the Governor for the Zobe Dam water project and the ongoing Zobe Phase 1B works, describing them as “lifesaving interventions for communities that depend on the dam for drinking water, household use, and small-scale irrigation.”
He appealed for the rehabilitation of township roads, noting that improved road infrastructure would ease movement, support commerce, and expand economic opportunities within Dutsinma.
Earlier, Governor Radda received a royal welcome at the palace of the District Head of Dutsinma, Alhaji Sada Mohammed Sada, Yandakan Katsina, who offered prayers and reaffirmed the emirate’s cooperation with the administration.
The Governor said his visit was part of a wider strategy aimed at strengthening engagement with traditional institutions.
“Our district heads, ward heads, and community leaders are the engines of grassroots development,” Governor Radda said. “They are the ones who maintain order, coordinate communication, and keep our communities united.”
He added that his administration would continue working closely with traditional leaders to sustain peace, expand development, and preserve the values that define Katsina State.
The Governor was joined by several top government officials and political leaders, including the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; the Senator representing Katsina Central, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua; and the Member representing Dutsinma/Kurfi/ Federal Constituency, Hon. Aminu Balele Dan arewa.
Also present were the Member representing Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency, Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri; the APC National Legal Adviser, Barr. Murtala Aliyu Kankia; Chief of staff Abdulkadir mamman Nasir, Principal private secretary Abdullahi Aliyu turaji; and the Chairman of the Katsina State APC, Alhaji Sani JB Daura; members of Katsina state executive Council; among others.
About The Author
