Governor Umar Dikko Radda of Katsina State has expressed concern over the alarming presence of terrorists who have taken control of several schools across the state. The governor made this revelation during the 7th and 8th combined convocation ceremony of the Federal University, Dutsinma (FUDMA), Katsina State over the weekend. He assured that his administration is committed to eradicating this security threat and will not relent in its efforts.
Governor Radda disclosed that his administration has established the Katsina State Community Watch Corps to address the issue of insecurity and create a safe learning environment for students in the state. He emphasized the vital connection between education and security, noting that many schools in frontline Local Government Areas have been forced to close due to banditry, with some schools transforming into hideouts for bandits.
He stated, “There is no education without security,” and underscored the significance of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps in the fight against insecurity and the promotion of a conducive environment for youth to learn and thrive.
Governor Radda outlined the priorities of his administration, placing special emphasis on addressing the challenge of out-of-school children. He affirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with partners to reduce the number of out-of-school children and working with religious schools to provide academic tools for students, preparing them for the future.
The governor highlighted that the government’s actions are aimed at laying the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Katsina. In addition to education, he mentioned the focus on sectors such as agriculture, health, social care, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and internally generated revenue to drive comprehensive development in the state.