By Fauziyya Lawal, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has once again extended a hand of support to victims of banditry in its continued efforts to cushion the impact of insecurity on rural communities. On Wednesday July 31, 2025, officials of the state government visited Kankia and Musawa Local Government Areas to deliver financial assistance to affected residents of banditry attacks.
The intervention focused on victims from Agala, Rimaye and Duza communities in Kankia and Karontukwane in Musawa areas that have suffered from repeated assaults by armed bandits resulting in deaths, abductions, injuries and destruction of property.
A total of ₦2.8million was disbursed to support victims with funds allocated based on the severity of their experiences. Bereaved families who lost loved ones were assisted with financial relief. Individuals who had been kidnapped and later released received support while those injured in the attacks currently receiving free treatment at state health facilities, were also given financial aid. Traders whose shops and livelihoods were destroyed received assistance to help restart their businesses.
Leading the intervention on behalf of Governor Dikko Umar Radda, was the Special Adviser on Security and Community Watch Yusuf Ibrahim Safana, He was accompanied by other committee members including the Senior Special Assistant on Victims of Banditry and Internally Displaced Persons, Sa’idu Ibrahim Danja; the Senior Special Assistant on Palliatives Lawal Zubair, Technical Adviser, Abubakar Usman and Dikko Ibrahim Kukasheka as the secretary of the committee among others
Speaking during the distribution exercise, Safana emphasized that the support provided was not compensation but a deliberate relief effort aimed at easing the financial burden faced by the victims. He conveyed the Governor’s message of solidarity, stating that the administration would continue to stand by its citizens in their most difficult moments.
“This is not the first time we are reaching out and it certainly will not be the last,” Safana said. “The Governor has directed us to ensure that no affected family or individual is neglected, no matter where they reside. This intervention is a continuation of the state’s unwavering support to its people.”
He urged local residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies and community structures in reporting suspicious activities, stressing that security remains a shared responsibility.
The Chairman of Kankia Local Government who joined the state officials during the visit, commended the administration for what he described as a consistent and compassionate response to the region’s security challenges. He expressed appreciation on behalf of the affected communities and affirmed the local council’s readiness to continue working closely with the state in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
Some of the beneficiaries shared their appreciation, noting that the presence of government officials and the relief provided gave them a sense of belonging and reassurance. Many described the intervention as timely, especially in light of the difficult economic circumstances created by the attacks.
The Katsina State Government has remained proactive in responding to the humanitarian consequences of insecurity, particularly in rural and vulnerable areas.
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