Katsina Governor Radda charges newly inaugurated LG chairmen to judiciously use every kobo

By Anthony Maliki, Abuja

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has charged the newly inaugurated chairmen of the 34 Local Government Areas of Katsina to ensure judicious utilization of public funds and prioritize projects that directly impact citizens’ lives.

The historic swearing-in ceremony held Monday at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, was administered by Katsina State Chief Judge, Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar.

Speaking at the event, Governor Radda stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility in local governance.

“I urge you all to approach your responsibilities with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Remember that public service is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good. Every kobo allocated to your councils must be judiciously utilized for projects that uplift the living standards of your people,” the Governor stressed.

Governor Radda noted that the occasion marked the first time in Katsina’s history where democratically elected councils transitioned to newly elected ones through proper elections.

The Governor also described the event as “the beginning of a new chapter for grassroots governance in Katsina State.”

Addressing the chairmen, the Governor stated, “As leaders of our Local Governments, you are now at the forefront of delivering development, promoting peace, and fostering unity within your communities. The expectations are high, and rightly so, because the local government system serves as the closest link between the government and the people.”

Governor Radda further declared, “I am assuring the good people of Katsina State and Nigeria at large that our government is fully committed to implement the Local Governments Autonomy in all its ramifications across the 34 LGAs in Katsina State.”

The Governor equally revealed the creation of a new department under the Ministry of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs that would be headed by a Special Adviser in charge of Inspectorate Matters in order to enhance and restructure for effective performance and efficient utilization of LGAs resources.

Governor Radda, however, identified six key priority areas for the chairmen’s tenure. These include education and youth empowerment, healthcare delivery, agricultural transformation, security and peace building, infrastructure development and environmental Sustainability

The Governor warned that “Corruption, inefficiency, and negligence will not be tolerated under my watch,” while assuring the chairmen of his administration’s “unwavering support” through guidance, technical assistance, and financial allocations.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), addressed the newly elected chairmen, drawing from his own experience in local government administration.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we’ve achieved remarkable success in turning dreams into reality. I am not surprised by this massive turnout today. The president’s success stems not only from his visionary leadership but also from his principled approach to politics—a politics of service, accomplishment, and genuine commitment to the people,” Dr. Ganduje stated.

The APC National Chairman expressed pride in the party’s achievements at the local level, saying, “Today, on behalf of the APC leadership, I commend your dedication to public service. We are proud of your achievements because we recognize the critical role of governance in uplifting our people.

“I speak to you not just as your party chairman but as someone who has walked in your shoes. I was once a councilor, a local government chairman, and a governor. I understand the challenges and responsibilities you bear,” Ganduje charged the chairmen.

On local government autonomy, Ganduje cautioned that “autonomy does not mean isolation. It does not mean you only show up when federal allocations arrive. It does not mean prioritizing personal gain over public good.”

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, Speaker Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, Senators and Federal House of Representatives Members representing Katsina at the National Assembly, Chief of Staff to the Governor Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, National Coordinator of New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD) Hon. Abdullahi Jabiru Tsauri, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the 34 Local Government Areas.