In an urgent plea for international assistance, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has called for immediate intervention from the World Food Programme (WFP) to address the escalating security crisis ravaging North West Nigeria.
During a high-stakes meeting in Abuja with WFP representatives, led by Country Director David Stevenson, Governor Radda highlighted the severe impact of the ongoing conflict, which has shifted from the North East to the North West.
“The epicentre of conflict has shifted from the North East, where Boko Haram activity has significantly decreased, to the North West.
We are now at the forefront of this war zone,” Radda stressed.
Governor Radda detailed his administration’s efforts over the past year to combat insecurity and mitigate food shortages, including the distribution of foodstuffs worth 10 billion naira and providing daily meals to 72,000 people during Ramadan.
“We appreciate the World Food Programme for acknowledging the severe challenges we face,” Radda stated.
He also emphasized the need for immediate international support to alleviate the crisis affecting Katsina and neighbouring Zamfara States.
“We are grateful that the World Food Programme has turned its attention to the North West.
While this intervention comes at a critical time, it is not too late. We desperately need assistance to address these challenges,” Radda urged.
Governor Radda outlined initiatives to support the state’s vulnerable populations, including distributing food and financial aid to 43,000 less privileged individuals and launching a job creation program for 3,000 youths.
He also announced plans to enhance agricultural productivity and distribute 400,000 bags of fertilizer worth 22 billion naira to local farmers.
“We are ready to partner and match resources with you to achieve our common goals,” Radda assured the WFP representatives, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the critical need for immediate intervention.
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