From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has cautioned the newly inaugurated chairmen of the 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state against the misuse of public funds, urging them to focus on projects that directly benefit the people.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony held on Monday at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, Governor Radda emphasized the importance of fiscal discipline and accountability in local governance. The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar.
“I urge you all to approach your responsibilities with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Public service is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good. Every kobo allocated to your councils must be judiciously utilized to improve the living standards of our people,” the Governor stated.
Radda noted that the event marked a historic milestone, as it was the first time in the state’s history that one set of democratically elected council chairmen was handing over to another through a proper electoral process. He described it as “the beginning of a new chapter for grassroots governance in Katsina State.”
He reminded the chairmen of their critical role as the closest link between government and the people.
“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,” he said.
Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing full local government autonomy across all 34 LGAs, announcing the establishment of a new department under the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. This department, to be led by a Special Adviser on Inspectorate Matters, will oversee effective performance and ensure efficient resource utilization.
He also outlined six key priority areas for the new chairmen: education and youth empowerment, healthcare delivery, agricultural transformation, security and peacebuilding, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability.
“Corruption, inefficiency, and negligence will not be tolerated under my watch,” the Governor warned, while pledging his administration’s unwavering support through technical assistance, guidance, and financial resources.
Also addressing the gathering, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, congratulated the new chairmen and reflected on his own journey through local government administration.
“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we’ve turned dreams into reality. His success is rooted not just in his vision but in his principled approach to politics—politics of service, accomplishment, and genuine commitment to the people,” Ganduje said.
He commended the APC’s achievements at the grassroots level and reminded the chairmen of the responsibilities that come with autonomy.
“Autonomy does not mean isolation. It does not mean only showing up when federal allocations arrive. It must never mean prioritizing personal gain over public good,” Ganduje cautioned.
Dignitaries at the swearing-in ceremony included Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, Speaker of the State Assembly Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, Senators and House of Representatives members from Katsina, Chief of Staff to the Governor Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, NEPAD National Coordinator Hon. Abdullahi Jabiru Tsauri, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the 34 LGAs.