Radda Tasks Newly Sworn-In Katsina LG Chairmen on Excellence, Accountability

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has charged the newly inaugurated 34 local government chairmen to deliver nothing short of excellence in service delivery and leadership.

Speaking during their swearing-in ceremony held on Monday in Katsina, the governor emphasized that the expectations of the people were high—especially in a time marked by both challenges and opportunities across the state.

“You are taking office at a critical time. The state needs bold and proactive leadership at the grassroots,” Radda said.

He urged the new chairmen to focus on key development areas including:

• Education
• Youth empowerment
• Infrastructure development, especially roads
• Healthcare, with an emphasis on strengthening primary healthcare systems

“A healthy population is a productive population,” the governor added, reinforcing the need for accessible and functional health facilities.

Radda also highlighted the importance of supporting agriculture by providing farmers with essential inputs and market access—an initiative aimed at boosting food security and job creation.

He called for collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to ensure peace and stability at the local level.

To improve governance at the grassroots, the governor revealed that the state government had established a new department within the Ministry for Local Governments to oversee and support the councils’ performance.

APC National Chairman Issues Stern Warning

Also present at the event was the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who delivered a firm message to the newly elected officials.

“I was once a local government secretary, chairman, and commissioner for local governments. So, I understand the system inside out,” Ganduje said.

He warned the chairmen against embezzlement and absenteeism, stressing that leadership must come with integrity and dedication.

“Don’t siphon public funds. Don’t be absentee chairmen who only show up when there’s an allocation.
Be present and committed—work every day for your people.”

Ganduje assured that there would be auditing, supervision, and accountability mechanisms in place to track financial activities at the local government level.

The swearing-in ceremony marks a new chapter for local governance in Katsina State, with renewed hopes for grassroots development, transparency, and citizen-focused service delivery.