GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

KTSG Prepares To Host 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

Festival Will Attract Diaspora, Nigeria Investors – Amb. Ihonre

Katsina State Government is set to take center stage as the host of the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed “African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”

This was revealed yesterday during a meeting with the ECOWAS Food and Cultural delegation and State Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

The Governor expressed his gratitude to the delegation for selecting Katsina as the host state for this landmark event.

The Governor emphasized the significance of gastronomy as a vital and sustainable component of the agricultural value chain, adding that its potential to foster peace and development across the region.

“The people of Katsina are known for their hospitality, and we look forward to welcoming our brothers and sisters from Nigeria and other ECOWAS countries. Cultural events and diplomacy have the power to reduce unnecessary tensions and instead focus on socioeconomic development, food security, and peace,” the Governor remarked.

Governor Radda further announced that Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, has been tasked with elevating the state’s profile on cultural preservation and tourism to a global level.

The ECOWAS Food and Cultural Fiesta aligns with the directive of Governor Radda during Eid-El-Fitr that the state’s iconic Durbar festival must be improved to ensure cultural preservation.

Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival and former United Nations Student Representative, expressed his appreciation to the Governor for the warm reception and support.

Ambassador Ihonre described the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau’s proposed venue as “the best facility of its size and capacity in the country.”

He also announced that the festival would attract investors in agriculture, particularly from the diaspora and within Nigeria, further boosting the region’s economic prospects.

Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa noted the significant economic benefits of hosting the festival, which is expected to draw thousands of visitors. “The festival will create opportunities across event management, local markets, tourism, logistics, and other industries, benefiting our youth and artisans. It will also drive demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation,” he stated.

The preparatory meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chief of Staff, Rt Hon Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, the Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajia Hadiza Yar’adua as well as Alh. Ibrahim Jikamshi, Director-General of the Katsina Investment Promotion Agency and Alh. Haruna Musa Rugoji, General Manager of the Katsina State Transport Authority (KTSTA).

The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival promises to be a historic event, spotlighting Katsina State as a hub of culture, heritage, and economic growth while promoting the collective values of peace and development across West Africa.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

17th January, 2025

THE MANAGEMENT AND STAFF OF ENERGY COMMISSION OF NIGERIA FELICITATE DR. ABDULLAHI MUSTAPHA ON HIS BIRTHDAY

The Management and Staff of Energy Commission of Nigeria felicitate Dr Mustapha Abdullahi Director-General/CEO of the Commission on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement released on Friday, 17 January 2025, they lauded the leadership style of their DG, Dr. Mustapha whom they describe as not just a good manager of men and resources, but a man with an amiable personality and God -fearing disposition.

“Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi has displayed an enviable leadership quality in the development of the sector through his significant contributions to the Commission including the energy sector that has witnessed sustainable growth in energy solutions that has also fostered appreciable levels.

“His unwavering dedication to duty, improvements to staff welfare have remained a rallying point that has continued to encourage staff, attract admiration and support to his policies for the overall good of the sector.

While wishing the indefatigable DG a happy birthday anniversary celebration, the Management and Staff of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN called on Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha to remain focused on his vision to take the Commission to the enviable heights for all and the nation at large.

The statement further commended Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha for the Renewed Hope that has uplifted the spirit of the workforce from its near-obscurity in its over four decades of existence

They further commended Mr. President for appointing a sound visionary and genuinely dedicated person as Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria in the person of Dr. Mustapha, who on assumption to office had assured that under his leadership, “the ECN will set the tone for economic development based on progressive innovation and policy initiatives
as envisioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.”

Breaking: Arewa Group Applauds CBN Governor Cardoso for Crack Down over Empty ATMs

The Arewa Accountability Forum has commended the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, for his decisive action against Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) that failed to dispense cash through Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) during the festive season. The Forum hailed the sanctions as a bold step toward promoting financial accountability and easing the cash flow challenges faced by Nigerians.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Sani Wakili in Kaduna on Tuesday evening, the Forum praised the CBN’s enforcement of ₦150 million fines on each non-compliant bank, describing it as a much-needed move to safeguard public trust in the financial system.

The release also quoted, a veteran journalist, Nasir Dambatta as saying “this decisive action by Governor Cardoso and the CBN is a commendable effort to ensure Nigerians’ access to cash, especially during critical periods like the yuletide season”.

Comrade Wakili, in the release noted that the CBN’s sanctions “send a strong message to banks that negligence and disregard for cash flow policies will no longer be tolerated.”

The Forum then applauded the CBN’s continued vigilance through spot checks, as well as its collaboration with security agencies to curb cash hoarding, illegal sales, and operational violations by Point-of-Sale (POS) operators. It also urged DMBs and financial service providers to fully comply with the CBN’s cash circulation policies to prevent further disruptions.

Citing Governor Cardoso’s remarks at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Annual Bankers’ Dinner in November 2024, the Forum noted his dedication to building a resilient and inclusive financial system.

“This CBN management’s leadership style is exactly what Nigeria needs to address long-standing issues in the banking sector,” Wakili added.

The Arewa Accountability Forum called on all stakeholders to support the CBN in its mission to enhance transparency, accountability, and trust within the financial system for the benefit of all Nigerians.

2027 Guber Race : Northern GroupVows to Stop Elrufai from Imposing Candidate in Kaduna,Backs Gov. Uba Sani’s Re-election Bid 

…says,No Vacancy Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House 

Group under aegis of Northern Coalition Socio-Political Group NCSPG has warned  former Kaduna Governor ,Mal Nasir Elrufai against alleged ploy to unseat Governor Uba Sani and vowed to resist what it described as political maneuvers and evil Machinations.

The group which promised to support Governor Uba Sani’s re-election bid said, “No Vacancy in Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna” .

“We have information nocturnal about Elrufai’s meetings ,but we are telling him that it will never see the light of the day as the citizens know the Uba Sani has established a sound political structure and development model for growth and so won’t be decieved. 

Addressing journalists during a press conference held at Arewa House about emerging political development in Kaduna ahead of the 2027 general elections,the National President of Northern Coalition Socio-Political Group NCSPG explained ,”It has come to our notice that the Former Kaduna Governor,Mal Nasir Elrufai is working underground to pull our hardworking and indefatigable Governor, Senator Uba Sani down despite obvious and glaring development and growth since assumption of office as the Executive Governor.

While recalling genesis of the bad blood against Governor Uba Sani, the group said,”The  Kaduna State House Assembly adopting the report of the 13-man panel, asking  the incumbent Governor, Uba Sani, to refer El-Rufai, his Commissioner of Finance and other aides to relevant security agencies for investigation over  $587 million inherited debts , N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities from the administration of Mr El-Rufai.

“Instead of the former Governor to provide evidence against allegations raised by the State Assembly Adhoc-Committee ,he has adopted a Fight to Finish approach rather follow due legal processes to defend himself.

“We are not here to mince words, but here to tell Elrufai that we have uncovered all evil his plans to work against Governor Uba Sani come 2027 general elections . Secondly, we are here to tell the good citizens of Kaduna State that we are very impressed and satisfied with Governor Uba Sani’s visionary leadership and commitment to good governance despite poor resources available to the state .”

Comrade Mohammed however said, “It is in the public domain that the  governor lamented that the N3 Billion left from the allocation by Elrufai was not enough to pay salaries, as the state’s monthly salary bill stands at N5.2 billion. 

“There are several issues and debt burden inherited by Senator Uba Sani’s administration,yet for peace to reign he has decided that due process be followed to unravel the truth about it .

“But as it is now, Elrufai seem not want peace and we are battle ready to fight on behalf of Governor Uba Sani to liberate Kaduna people from shackles of debt burden, high handedness and imposition of stooges as Governor come 2027 .”

Speaking further he said,”As citizens, who have seen the work in progress and sound peaceful initiatives by the Governor ,we vow to resist all political maneuvers and evil Machinations by the former Governor to unseat our leader and Governor.

“It is against this background that we have come to inform people of Kaduna State ,both residents and citizens that as far as we are concerned , Governor Uba Sani has done well and he’s still working had to make Kaduna State the  beautiful bride in the face of the country and world.

“Thus, we make bold to tell Elrufai and his cohorts holding nocturnal meetings that “No Vacancy In Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House Come 2027” 

He has  enjoyed his eight years of two terms as the  constitution provided and nothing wrong with Uba Sani enjoying same rights.

“It is on record that the former commissioner has implicated him during investigation. We are therefore calling on the relevant agency to arrest and prosecute him because he is not above the law”

“His recent visit of the former commissioner at the prison clearly shows he is supporting the indicted commissioner and there fore made him culpable. 

“Let us also remind El-Rufa’i that he is no longer the gov of Kaduna state, he should therefore stop his parade show with security behind him just to convince his blinded supporters that he is still popular. This is unacceptable as it will only heighten the political tension already brewing in the state – we therefore call on the Director Dss Kaduna as well as state com of police to call him to prevent breakdown of law and order in the state

“We pray for peace and tranquility in our dear country and Kaduna State in particular.”

2027 Elections : Group Vows to Resist  Political Manufacturers,Evil Machinations Against Gov. Uba Sani 

…says,No Vacancy Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House 

Group under aegis of Northern Coalition Socio-Political Group NCSPG has warned  former Kaduna Governor ,Mal Nasir Elrufai against alleged ploy to unseat Governor Uba Sani and vowed to resist what it described as political maneuvers and evil Machinations.

The group which said, “No Vacancy in Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna” claimed the alleged  nocturnal meetings and move by Elrufai and his cohorts will never see the light of the day as the citizens know the Governor has established a sound political structure and development model for growth and so won’t be decieved. 

Addressing journalists during a press conference held at Arewa House about emerging political development in Kaduna ahead of the 2027 general elections,the National President of Northern Coalition Socio-Political Group NCSPG explained ,”It has come to our notice that the Former Kaduna Governor,Mal Nasir Elrufai is working underground to pull our hardworking and indefatigable Governor, Senator Uba Sani down despite obvious and glaring development and growth since assumption of office as the Executive Governor.

While recalling genesis of the bad blood against Governor Uba Sani, the group said,”The  Kaduna State House Assembly adopting the report of the 13-man panel, asking  the incumbent Governor, Uba Sani, to refer El-Rufai, his Commissioner of Finance and other aides to relevant security agencies for investigation over  $587 million inherited debts , N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities from the administration of Mr El-Rufai.

“Instead of the former Governor to provide evidence against allegations raised by the State Assembly Adhoc-Committee ,he has adopted a Fight to Finish approach rather follow due legal processes to defend himself.

“We are not here to mince words, but here to tell Elrufai that we have uncovered all evil his plans to work against Governor Uba Sani come 2027 general elections . Secondly, we are here to tell the good citizens of Kaduna State that we are very impressed and satisfied with Governor Uba Sani’s visionary leadership and commitment to good governance despite poor resources available to the state .”

Comrade Mohammed however said, “It is in the public domain that the  governor lamented that the N3 Billion left from the allocation by Elrufai was not enough to pay salaries, as the state’s monthly salary bill stands at N5.2 billion. 

“There are several issues and debt burden inherited by Senator Uba Sani’s administration,yet for peace to reign he has decided that due process be followed to unravel the truth about it .

“But as it is now, Elrufai seem not want peace and we are battle ready to fight on behalf of Governor Uba Sani to liberate Kaduna people from shackles of debt burden, high handedness and imposition of stooges as Governor come 2027 .”

Speaking further he said,”As citizens, who have seen the work in progress and sound peaceful initiatives by the Governor ,we vow to resist all political maneuvers and evil Machinations by the former Governor to unseat our leader and Governor.

“It is against this background that we have come to inform people of Kaduna State ,both residents and citizens that as far as we are concerned , Governor Uba Sani has done well and he’s still working had to make Kaduna State the  beautiful bride in the face of the country and world.

“Thus, we make bold to tell Elrufai and his cohorts holding nocturnal meetings that “No Vacancy In Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House Come 2027” 

He has  enjoyed his eight years of two terms as the  constitution provided and nothing wrong with Uba Sani enjoying same rights.

“It is on record that the former commissioner has implicated him during investigation. We are therefore calling on the relevant agency to arrest and prosecute him because he is not above the law”

“His recent visit of the former commissioner at the prison clearly shows he is supporting the indicted commissioner and there fore made him culpable.

“Let us also remind El-Rufa’i that he is no longer the gov of Kaduna state, he should therefore stop his parade show with security behind him just to convince his blinded supporters that he is still popular. This is unacceptable as it will only heighten the political tension already brewing in the state – we therefore call on the Director Dss Kaduna as well as state com of police to call him to prevent breakdown of law and order in the state

“We pray for peace and tranquility in our dear country and Kaduna State in particular.”

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Radda Receives Prestigious Hydrogeologist Fellowship Award

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has been inducted a Fellow of the Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists (FNAH).

The prestigious fellowship was presented by the state chairman of the Association who doubled as the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Water Resources, Geo Aminu Tukur, during the visit to the Government House, Katsina.

In accepting the honour, Governor Radda pointed out the recent N20 billion contract awarded for improving the supply of clean and safe drinking water across the state.

The Governor explained that the project initiated last month, aims to enhance clean and safe drinking water supply to urban, small towns, and rural communities throughout Katsina State.

Governor Radda further outlined plans to expand Ajiwa Dan beyond its current capacity through the construction of an additional treatment plant.

The Governor also revealed ongoing preparations for the second phase of the Zobe Dam project, which connect Dutsinma to various Katsina communities.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Geologist Aminu Tukur, explained that the fellowship designation (FNAH) represents the Association’s highest honour, bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to hydrogeological advancement in Nigeria.

Geo Tukur noted that the nomination and screening committee particularly commended Governor Radda investment in rural, small town, and urban water infrastructure, including the SURWASH programs and the maintenance of Ajiwa water works.

Governor Radda expressed gratitude for the recognition stating that the fellowship would further motivate his administration efforts to ensure clean and safe drinking water access for all residents of Katsina State.

“Achieving this goal requires continued collaboration between the government and water resource professionals,” the Governor stressed.

Geo Tukur, however, congratulated the Governor for his sacrifice leading to the award which he said serves as a reminder of more laudable projects ahead.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

13th January, 2025

Bago A Political Helmsman Steering The Ship Of Niger State,

By Comrade Musa Mohammed

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago is more than a mentor, a father figure, and a role model.

His astute political acumen has been a guiding force, setting a motivating template for countless individuals and Niger state as a whole.

He is a messiah and political helmsman steering the ship of niger State, laying a resilient foundation for its modern development.

A man of the people who is loved by all, Bago has been able to unite all the ethnic groups in the state and this is responsible for the total absence of communal skirmishes in niger state.

Hon. Mohammed Bago has deep understanding of human nature, is a person of “deep foresight” whose actions and work rate have positively impacted niger State.

Bago political sagacity has put Niger State at the forefront of effective governance.

Governor Bago has in the past one and half years, carved a niche for himself in the area of security, qualitative education and qualitative healthcare delivery.

Due to his no-nonsense and uncompromising stance on insecurity, today, niger is undoubtedly amongst the most peaceful state in the country.

The state is indeed insecurity-free. In the area of education, governor Bago has changed the faces of the education across the state, his developmental efforts has put the state on the map of educationally advanced states in the country.

Most stakeholders have argued that part of the insecurity pervading the nation today is due to illiteracy and having a leader in the mould of Mohammed Bago who knows the essence of education, niger will become a high flying state in no time.

An unrepentant anti-corruption advocate, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago is running niger state in the most transparent and accountable manner.

Look at the unity he has brought to the different ethnic groups in niger through his appointments and spread of projects across the three Senatorial districts of the state.

The legacy he will leave is not just a testament but a living reality for all to witness.

Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight),
Political Analyst, writer and Blogger
From Shaba Kaduna North
moonlightnews15@gmail.com
08038895334

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Radda Approves Minor Cabinet Reshuffle

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle aimed at optimizing the performance of the administration’s Building Your Future agenda.

In the reshuffle, Alhaji Malik Anas, a new commissioner nominee, has been appointed to head the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. Alhaji Anas holds a Masters in Business Administration from Bayero University, Kano. He’s equally a one time Katsina State Accountant General, and member of different professional bodies including Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Financial Reporting of Nigeria among others.

Also, Alhaji Bello Husaini Kagara, who heads the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, will now lead the Ministry of Finance.

Hon. Bashir Tanimu Gambo, who previously served as Finance Commissioner, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

The reshuffle also sees Alhaji Yusuf Rabi’u Jirdede moving from the Ministry of Special Duties to assume leadership of the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Investment, while Alhaji Adnan Nahabu transitions from Commerce, Trade and Investment to head the Ministry of Special Duties.

Governor Radda directs the newly appointed and reassigned commissioners to maintain excellent service.

The Governor specifically charged Alhaji Malik Anas to align his ministry’s objectives with the administration’s Building Your Future agenda, while urging all commissioners to intensify their efforts in serving the people of Katsina State.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina

6th January, 2025

Time to plan for 2025 is now!
-Fadojoe

The leader of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria aka Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative and former presidential aspirant under Labour Party, advises that specific planning is a sure way to progress. Therefore anyone not having plan for January to December and beyond, needs to take time out to plan for this 2025 and this will enhance progress for the year.

In a broadcast through his official YouTube channel, the USA based nurse says that yesterday being the first Sunday in 2025, he received so many messages wishing him happy first Sunday of the year of happy first Sunday of the month. Adding that, “it’s a good thing to say happy first Sunday of the year, happy first Sunday of the month. But ask yourself, what is your plan for this year, 2025 or is that how you will continue with the tradition of happy this, happy that; without seizing the time progressively?”

Alluding to the saying, ‘he that fails to plan, plans to fail’ he urges his followers to ‘make hay while the sun shines.’ and draw out their specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART) plans this January, for those who have not done so. And not just plan, but write down the plan, and spell out the specific action they are ready to take to implement the plan as well as the commitment and sacrifice to ensure the plans materialize. “Don’t just join the bandwagon of people that are only religiously saying happy first this, happy first that; without seeing the opportunity to move forward and do better what you didn’t do well before now, and check where you need to make amends on your journey in success to ensure appropriate amendments.

“Dangote for insurance started a refinery when he said happy new year in 2024 and as at when he would have said happy last day of 2024, the refinery was operational. That is progress. Likewise, some people started businesses in 2024, some started studying, some started family. All are part of progress.

“Ask yourself what you achieved in 2024. Then either you achieved something or nothing, you can still decide to be among those who will achieve great things this 2025. And whatever you want to achieve this year, the time to plan for 2025 is now if you have not planned before now”, he concluded.

Kafur District Head Honours Engr. Hassan with Walin Kafur Title

The District Head and Dangaladiman Katsina, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdullahi Rabe, has bestowed the prestigious title of Walin Kafur on Engr. (Dr.) Hassan Tingilin, the Managing Director of Katsina State Water Board, who previously held the title of Zannan Galadima Katsina.

The ceremony also saw the son of the new Walin Kafur, Dikko Abdullah Tukur Tingilin, receiving the title of Gwagwaren Kafur, a title that holds special significance as it mirrors that of the current Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, who holds the title of Gwagwaren Katsina.

The turbaning ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, family, friends and well-wishers from within and outside Katsina state.