From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his deep personal ties to Dutsinma, describing the town as the place that shaped his upbringing, values, and commitment to public service.
Speaking during a community engagement visit on Thursday, Radda expressed gratitude for what he called the “everlasting loyalty and unmatched goodwill” of residents.
“Every time I come back to Dutsinma, I feel the same warmth I felt growing up here,” he said. “This town is not just a location on the map — it is a home whose people have stood by me from the beginning, and I remain eternally grateful.”
The Governor commended the Executive Chairman of Dutsinma Local Government, Hon. Abdulsalam Shema, for unveiling a large-scale empowerment initiative aimed at strengthening household income and supporting local enterprises.
The programme includes the distribution of 11 motor vehicles, ₦30,000 each to 500 residents, and additional tools for small businesses.
“This empowerment programme is a clear demonstration of leadership that listens and leadership that responds,” Radda said.
Former Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema, who also attended the event, praised Radda for maintaining what he described as “a living relationship with the soil that raised him.”
“It is rare for leaders to maintain such genuine emotional ties to their origins,” Shema said. “His love for this town is not symbolic — it is practical, visible, and deeply rooted in service.”
Shema also recalled Dutsinma’s historical significance, noting that the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua received part of his early education in the town.
At a stakeholders’ meeting with elders, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Bashir Tanimu, reaffirmed the community’s loyalty to the Radda administration.
“Your Excellency, this is your home. Your people are proud of your leadership, your humility, and the progress you are delivering across Katsina State,” he said.
Tanimu urged the Governor to help fast-track federal clearance for the upgrade of Dutsinma General Hospital to a Federal Teaching Hospital, noting the presence of the Federal University Dutsinma offering MBBS and Nursing programmes.
He also commended the Governor for supporting the Zobe Dam water supply project and appealed for rehabilitation of township roads to ease movement and stimulate local commerce.
Receiving the Governor, the District Head of Dutsinma, Alhaji Sada Mohammed Sada, Yandakan Katsina, offered prayers for peace and reaffirmed the emirate’s cooperation.
Governor Radda told the District Head that his visit was part of a broader plan to strengthen engagement with traditional institutions.
He added that his administration would continue working with traditional leaders to sustain peace, enhance development, and preserve the values of Katsina State.