By: Abdullahi Inuwa
KATSINA — Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has reaffirmed the Katsina State Government’s determination to defeat insecurity through sustained security operations backed by fervent prayers, declaring that recent victories against armed bandits are evidence of what can be achieved through unity, faith and collective action.
The governor made the declaration on Saturday during the 2026 Yaumush Shukr (Thanksgiving Day) held at the Usman Bin Fodio Juma’at Mosque, Modoji, Katsina, where thousands of worshippers gathered to offer gratitude to Almighty Allah for His blessings upon the state.
Radda said the government’s security strategy, which combines intensified operations by security agencies with community support and spiritual commitment, has continued to yield encouraging results across parts of the state.
He cited the recent successes recorded by the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch) and other security agencies, including the elimination of more than 40 suspected bandits in southern Katsina, describing the achievements as a product of both determined security efforts and the prayers of the people.
According to the governor, the victories serve as motivation for the government to remain steadfast in restoring lasting peace across all affected communities.
He urged residents not to relent in praying for the safety of the state, the nation and security personnel who continue to risk their lives in the fight against criminal elements.
Governor Radda also called on citizens to continue supporting the government’s efforts by promoting unity, cooperation and peaceful coexistence, stressing that collective responsibility remains essential to overcoming security challenges.
Beyond security, the governor expressed gratitude to Allah for blessing Katsina with distinguished sons and daughters whose outstanding achievements continue to project the state positively at both national and international levels.
He noted that such accomplishments demonstrate the immense human potential of Katsina and should inspire younger generations to strive for excellence.
Earlier in his remarks, the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruq Umar, praised the developmental strides recorded in Katsina State since its creation, describing the progress as remarkable.
The monarch commended Governor Radda for what he described as impressive performance in several sectors, particularly his commitment to promoting Islamic values, religious harmony and good governance.
He encouraged the governor to sustain the momentum and continue implementing programmes that would improve the welfare of the people.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Mallam Ishaq Shehu Dabai, said no words would be sufficient to appreciate Allah for the countless blessings bestowed upon Katsina State and Nigeria.
He urged the faithful to remain grateful at all times while continuing to seek divine guidance for leaders and the nation.
Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad Batagarawa, explained that the Katsina State Government designated August 1 every year as Yaumush Shukr to collectively appreciate Allah for His mercy, protection and numerous favours upon the state.
Batagarawa praised the present administration for strengthening key religious and social institutions, including the Hisbah Board, the Zakkat and Waqf Board, as well as security committees established across the state to support peace-building efforts.
The thanksgiving programme featured special prayers led by renowned Islamic scholars, including Sheikh Nazir Kofar Baru Daura, Sheikh Hadi Balarabe, Alaramma Bishir Suleiman, Sheikh Zakariyya Al-Khashinawi, Sheikh Gambo Mustapha and Sheikh Ahmad Sukaraj.
The event also included the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and prayers for peace, unity, security and continued prosperity for Katsina State and Nigeria.
Among the dignitaries who attended the event were the Deputy Governor, the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, the Grand Khadi, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Kauran Katsina, permanent secretaries, top government officials, Islamic scholars and other distinguished guests.
The annual thanksgiving gathering underscored the state’s belief that while decisive security measures remain essential in confronting criminality, faith, gratitude and communal prayers also play a vital role in sustaining hope and strengthening the resolve to achieve lasting peace.
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