Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has praised the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari, for empowering 1,000 beneficiaries with a starter capital of ₦300,000 each. He described the support as an important contribution to both national and state efforts aimed at promoting self-reliance, productivity, and economic recovery. The governor made the remarks today in Malumfashi during the launch of the second phase of the empowerment scheme.
Governor Radda said programmes focused on youth and grassroots empowerment remain the most effective and sustainable ways to address poverty, unemployment, and insecurity. He explained that his administration is investing heavily in initiatives that help young people and vulnerable groups earn a decent living through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and participation in agricultural value chains.
According to Governor Radda, “What Alhaji Kabiru Masari has done today aligns strongly with our vision in Katsina State. Empowering people at the grassroots is the surest way to build a resilient economy. When a young person is given the opportunity to be productive, you are not only providing income — you are preventing crime, strengthening families, and building safer communities. This is why our administration places emphasis on youth empowerment, community-based security, and job creation.”
He noted that Katsina State has adopted a strategy that prioritizes skills development, micro-enterprise funding, cooperative support, rural economic stimulation, and inclusive governance. He added that every intervention, whether from government or private individuals, contributes to the broader goal of lifting citizens out of poverty.
Governor Radda encouraged more leaders and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate Alhaji Masari by investing in people and partnering with the state to expand grassroots development. He stated that the empowerment effort goes beyond distributing funds and is instead about restoring hope and creating a foundation for long-term prosperity. He said, “If properly utilised, this support will allow beneficiaries to build sustainable businesses that will eventually employ others. That is how communities grow. That is how a state moves forward.”
Speaking on behalf of the visiting governors, the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, commended Alhaji Kabiru Masari for his commitment to improving livelihoods. He said the empowerment provides a strong platform for small-scale businesses to grow.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, also praised the initiative, describing it as fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and suitable for replication across Nigeria.
Former Katsina State Governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, urged the beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely to uplift their families and support community development.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, who helped present the grants, advised beneficiaries to use the support for its intended purpose and work towards becoming employers of labour. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting efforts that bring hope and opportunity to citizens in line with the Renewed Hope Initiative, while commending Ibrahim Kabir Masari for his impactful contributions.
The event was attended by top government officials from within and outside Katsina State.
