National Assembly (NASS) member representing Katsina Central Senatorial zone, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, has flagged off a N1.586 billion empowerment programme for his constituents.

Senator Yar’adua is younger brother to late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua.

The flag-off ceremony, held at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium over the weekend, saw the distribution of empowerment items and support materials including 40 vehicles, 410 motorcycles, 200 trycicles, and 400 sewing machines.

Other items distributed include 400 grinding machines, 100 bicycles, five ambulances, hundreds of refrigerators, N150 million cash support, among other items.

Speaking, Governor Radda described the initiative as a reflection of responsive leadership and a commitment to improving the welfare and livelihoods of citizens amid prevailing economic challenges.

He said the intervention would strengthen grassroots economic activities and improve living conditions across beneficiary communities.

“This programme covers 11 local government areas, and it demonstrates a deep commitment to grassroots development. It is a commendable effort considering the scale of the intervention,” he added.

Governor Radda also expressed confidence in the Senator’s leadership, referencing his family’s political legacy.

“You come from a family with a rich political history. Your late father served as a minister, and your brother was once President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“You therefore have every right and the foundation to be in politics, and I assure you of my full support,” the governor said.

He added that, “Many of us in politics today benefitted from the goodwill and foundation laid by the late Shehu Musa Yar’adua and later Umaru Musa Yar’adua. Based on this, we stand firmly behind the Senator,” he added.

Earlier, Senator Yar’adua described the programme as a moment of fulfillment for him and his constituents.

He highlighted his legislative contributions, noting that he has sponsored five bills since assuming office, with particular focus on security challenges.

“Among the bills I presented, the foremost addresses security challenges affecting our people. I also sponsored a bill addressing customs-related issues, particularly those affecting border communities like Jibia.”

Yar’adua assured of his commitment to sustaining empowerment initiatives across the senatorial district