The Katsina State Executive Council, under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has rolled out a sweeping package of strategic projects designed to bolster security, revamp education, ease transportation, and empower women and youth across the state.
The decisions were reached at the council’s 14th regular meeting held yesterday at Government House, Katsina.
Among the headline approvals is the procurement of 5,000 cartons of ammunition for community watch corps, vigilante groups, and hunters. The move, according to the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, is intended to back security operatives in the ongoing fight against banditry.
“This initiative strengthens collaboration with our security operatives and enhances public safety, allowing residents to live without fear,” he said.
On infrastructure and transport, the Council approved the purchase of 30-unit hybrid buses, each with capacity for over 40 students, to cut commuting costs and reduce emissions. The Works Commissioner, Engr. Sani Magaji Ingawa, also announced approval for the construction of the Daura Western Bypass Dual Carriageway, a 14.43km project linked to the Daura-Katsina Federal Highway.
“These projects reflect our resolve to modernize transport and open up new road networks across the state,” Ingawa stated.
The education sector also received a boost, with the installation of solar-powered water systems, CCTV cameras, backup generators, and a 300 kWp solar PV energy system at Special Model Schools in Radda. The Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa Musawa, disclosed that the Council has also declared a state of emergency on dilapidated primary schools.
“In the first phase, the 10 worst schools in each of the 34 LGAs will undergo rigorous rehabilitation. This is part of our plan to revitalize education at all levels,” she explained.
For women, the Council approved rehabilitation, training, and settlement support for widows and vulnerable women, particularly those affected by banditry. Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hadiza Abubakar Yar’adua, said the initiative will provide livelihood packages to restore dignity and economic stability.
Youth development is also high on the agenda, with the launch of a Graduate Entrepreneurship Empowerment Programme to provide soft loans for graduates to establish small businesses. Director-General of KASEDA, Hajiya Aisha Aminu Malunfashi, described the scheme as a lifeline in tackling unemployment.
“This programme is a critical step in promoting economic stability in our state,” she said.
To crown it all, the Council approved the remodeling and automation of the State Executive Council Chamber, migrating governance from analog to digital systems for greater efficiency.
Governor Radda’s “Building Your Future” agenda, as reflected in the approvals, places emphasis on security, opportunity, and sustainable development—a roadmap his administration insists will transform Katsina into a safer and more prosperous state.
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