Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has charged the new chairmen of the 34 local government areas to ensure judicious utilisation of public funds and prioritize projects that directly impact citizens’ lives.

The swearing-in ceremony was held Monday evening at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, and was administered by the Katsina State Chief Judge, Justice Musa Danladi.

Radda called on the council chairmen to prioritise fiscal responsibility in local governance, adding, “I urge you all to approach your responsibilities with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Remember that public service is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good.
“Every kobo allocated to your councils must be judiciously utilized for projects that uplift the living standards of your people.

“As leaders of our local governments, you are now at the forefront of delivering development, promoting peace, and fostering unity within your communities.

“The expectations are high, and rightly so, because the local government system serves as the closest link between the government and the people.”

Radda also reiterated the commitment of his administration to implementing local government autonomy.

“I am assuring the good people of Katsina State and Nigeria at large that our government is fully committed to implementing the local government autonomy in all its ramifications across the 34 LGAs in Katsina State,” Radda said.

He disclosed that a new department has been created under the Ministry of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs to be headed by a Special Adviser in charge of Inspectorate Matters to enhance and restructure for effective performance and efficient utilisation of LGA resources.

Radda, however, identified six key priority areas for the chairmen’s tenure. These include education and youth empowerment, healthcare delivery, agricultural transformation, security and peacebuilding, infrastructure development and environmental Sustainability.

The Governor warned that “Corruption, inefficiency, and negligence will not be tolerated under my watch,” while assuring the chairmen of his administration’s “unwavering support” through guidance, technical assistance, and financial allocations.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), addressed the newly elected chairmen, drawing from his own experience in local government administration.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we’ve achieved remarkable success in turning dreams into reality. I am not surprised by this massive turnout today. The president’s success stems not only from his visionary leadership but also from his principled approach to politics—a politics of service, accomplishment, and genuine commitment to the people,” Dr. Ganduje stated.

The APC National Chairman expressed pride in the party’s achievements at the local level, saying, “Today, on behalf of the APC leadership, I commend your dedication to public service. We are proud of your achievements because we recognize the critical role of governance in uplifting our people.”

“I speak to you not just as your party chairman but as someone who has walked in your shoes. I was once a councilor, a local government chairman, and a governor. I understand the challenges and responsibilities you bear,” Ganduje said.

On local government autonomy, Ganduje cautioned that “autonomy does not mean isolation. It does not mean you only show up when federal allocations arrive. It does not mean prioritizing personal gain over public good.”