As the present administration under Governor Dikko Umaru Radda marks its second anniversary, would you share some of the major achievements so far?
As we approach May 29, 2025, which marks two years of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda’s administration, I can confidently say that we’ve recorded notable progress.
From the outset, we prioritised impactful infrastructure, starting with the Urban Renewal Project, an ambitious initiative launched during the first State Executive Council meeting.
This project has transformed the state capital through the construction of major dual carriageways covering 555.7 kilometres, all illuminated with solar-powered streetlights.
A prime example is the Eastern Bypass, which begins at Umaru Musa Yar’ Yar’Adua University (UMYU) and winds through key locations before reaching Yandaki Village.
Although initially projected to take 18 months, we completed it in just 12 months, and it was recently commissioned by the President.
Beyond this, we’ve advanced several strategic road corridors across the state capital and surrounding areas, with over 160 kilometres of roads completed or currently under construction.
These efforts, totalling roughly ₦150 billion in investment, aim to ease mobility, decongest urban centres, and stimulate economic activity.
When we assumed office, many of the Katsina State Transport Authority’s (KSTA) vehicles were grounded. With fuel subsidies removed and transportation costs rising, we knew immediate intervention was needed.
The state invested in 40 new buses, costing around ₦600 million, to revitalise public transportation. Since then, KSTA has continued expanding its fleet through internally generated revenue while increasing the number of service substations across the state to improve access and ease mobility challenges.
The Katsina State Road Maintenance Agency, (KASROMA), has made visible strides. For instance, following appeals from residents of Hachikam Kodu about poor road conditions during the rainy season, we approved a ₦373 million project to address the issue, which is now actively progressing.
Similarly, a previously neglected road leading to the Teaching Hospital’s Paramedical Centre was rehabilitated, significantly improving accessibility. KASROMA has also been instrumental in repairing potholes and restoring several key roads across urban and rural areas, such as the damaged Mararaba Matazu to Musa road.
The KASROTA agency, which oversees vehicle inspection and road safety, has received a significant boost under this administration. To improve operations and ensure road safety standards, we’ve recruited 304 new staff.
This reinforcement will enhance the agency’s capacity to ensure all vehicles on our roads meet safety requirements, contributing to safer travel for everyone in the state.
Some of these projects have required budgetary adjustments, and we’ve requested supplementary funding where necessary to ensure quality completion.
What challenges have you encountered in implementing these projects?
Naturally, every large-scale infrastructure project comes with hurdles. Cash flow is often a constraint in road construction, but we’ve managed to maintain timely payments to contractors, which keeps work progressing steadily.
Insecurity, especially in the southern part of the state, posed a serious challenge, particularly for road contracts inherited from the previous administration.
To navigate this, we reassigned some projects to local contractors who understand the terrain and can work more effectively under the circumstances.
We also face occasional resistance from residents, especially when construction requires removing existing structures. However, we approach these issues sensitively, engaging communities early, conducting thorough consultations, and ensuring fair compensation. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in maintaining project momentum.
What is your vision for Katsina by the end of this administration’s tenure?
Our overarching goal is to foster socio-economic development by providing essential infrastructure across every part of the state. Whether in the Katsina or Daura zones, we want every community to feel the positive impact of our projects.
The Urban Renewal Project has already enhanced access to services like healthcare and education within the capital. Now, we are replicating similar developments in other areas such as the Funtua Zone, where key projects like the Katsina– Funtua among many others underway, with considerable progress recorded.
What is your message to the people of Katsina State?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Katsina for their consistent support and patience. I encourage continued cooperation with the administration as we work to enhance infrastructure and overall quality of life.
This government is determined to uplift every segment of society, and with the people’s trust and collaboration, we will continue to deliver meaningful development.
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