Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda continued his Statewide Engagement Tour with a major empowerment event in Kankara Local Government, marking another step in his administration’s effort to promote inclusive growth, citizen empowerment, and community-focused governance. The Governor joined the Member representing Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Shehu Dalhatu Tafoki, at a wide-reaching grassroots empowerment programme aimed at improving livelihoods across the constituency.
Hon. Tafoki, while welcoming Governor Radda and other dignitaries, explained that the intervention was part of his ongoing effort to support the resilience and aspirations of the people he represents.
The empowerment package included the distribution of motor vehicles, Hijet vans, motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, POS machines, cash support, and exercise books for primary and secondary school students. These items were designed to strengthen small businesses, support vulnerable families, and promote economic stability across the constituency.
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda commended Hon. Tafoki for what he described as a meaningful contribution to the welfare of the constituency. He stated, “Every tool provided today represents an opportunity for economic progress, for family stability, and for a brighter future. This aligns completely with our collective mission to uplift communities and ensure no citizen is left behind.” He noted that the ongoing Statewide Engagement Tour was initiated to deepen interaction with citizens, assess needs directly, and reinforce cooperation between state and federal representatives.
Addressing the beneficiaries, the Governor added, “Our administration is committed to equitable development across all LGAs. We will continue to partner with elected leaders, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders to deliver meaningful support that transforms lives.” During the visit, he also held consultative meetings with traditional rulers, youth groups, women leaders, and security stakeholders in Kankara to identify priority areas requiring government attention.
Earlier in his remarks, Hon. Engr. Shehu Dalhatu Tafoki expressed appreciation for the Governor’s leadership, describing it as visionary and community-focused. He explained that the empowerment initiative was carefully designed to support youths, women, small businesses, and vulnerable families in order to boost productivity and social stability. He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining interventions that encourage enterprise, strengthen local economies, and improve the well-being of his constituents.
Also in Kankara, Governor Radda paid a courtesy visit to the District Head of Kankara, Rtd. Justice Adamu Bello, Sarkin Pauwan Katsina, together with the District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kanwan Katsina. The District Head thanked the Governor for what he described as the “remarkable work” being delivered across the state. He praised the unity and teamwork between Governor Radda and Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe, saying it had strengthened development initiatives statewide.
The District Head appealed for further government interventions, including improved road linkages and town carriageways, as well as the upgrading of the local earth dam to enhance youth irrigation farming. He also requested support for revitalizing the fertilizer company in Kankara, describing it as essential to the success of local farmers. On behalf of all district heads, he expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s consistent commitment to the people.
Responding, Governor Radda explained that after two and a half years in office, his administration embarked on a state-wide visit to directly engage with communities, listen to their concerns, and identify priority needs. He said this was part of the promise he made during his campaign when he visited all local governments. He noted that Kankara was once among the areas most affected by insurgency, but the situation had significantly improved by Allah’s grace.
He reminded residents of his earlier pledge to recruit youths from affected communities, a promise he said had already been fulfilled. The Governor also reaffirmed support to religious leaders, particularly the payment of allowances to 2,535 Imams across the state. He highlighted the Community Development Programme as a major driver of grassroots transformation. He added that the upgrade of the Kankara Hospital is ongoing, while work on the Kankara–Katsina road project also continues.
The Governor later held strategic stakeholder discussions with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to better understand local needs and further strengthen service delivery in the area.
Those in attendance included Deputy Governor Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe, Senator Muntari Mohammed Dandutse of Funtua Zone, Chief of Staff Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, Principal Private Secretary Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, APC State Chairman Salisu JB Daura, Hon. Shehu Dalhatu Tafoki, members of the Katsina State Executive Council, and the District Head of Ketare.
