In an address during his two-day visit to Katsina, President Bola Tinubu urged governors across Nigeria to remain resolute in their commitment to delivering measurable improvements in the lives of their constituents. He called on them to disregard the negative commentary from critics, emphasizing that effective leadership is demonstrated through tangible outcomes.
“Let the people be at the heart of your programmes. Your hard work and concrete achievements will answer any criticism. Ignore distractions—your results will speak for you,” President Tinubu stated.
The President highlighted his support for infrastructure development by commissioning a 24-kilometer Eastern Bypass road, completed in just 18 months under the leadership of Governor Dikko Umar Radda. This strategic road connects vital routes from Dutsin-ma through Kano and Daura, terminating at Yandaki in the Kaita Local Government Area. He also inaugurated the Katsina Agricultural Mechanized Centre, a node for bolstering the region’s agricultural potential.
Addressing challenges in the state, President Tinubu acknowledged the ongoing issues of terrorism and banditry but commended the spirit of resilience and commitment demonstrated by Katsina officials. “We have decided for peace and stability. The federal government will stand with you,” he assured, recognizing the state’s efforts in navigating these complex challenges.
In his remarks, the President underscored the dual threat of hunger and poverty to national peace, advocating for a robust agricultural framework. “The economy is sailing in the right trajectory. Today, we are seeing an effort to banish hunger and a commitment to food security and the empowerment of our people. Once we liberate ourselves from hunger, we will appreciate peace and harmony,” he said, reiterating the government’s dedication to modernizing agricultural practices through mechanization and improved water management.
Tinubu also announced plans to revitalize the Bank of Agriculture to better support both small and large-scale farming, asserting the importance of agricultural investment in Nigeria’s economic future.
Commending Governor Radda for his exceptional achievements in agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure within his first two years, President Tinubu praised the collaborative leadership that has endured in Katsina. “The commitment you have shown is highly commendable. You are a patriot and a progressive mind with honesty,” he remarked.
The President urged state leadership to prioritize agriculture, which he deemed crucial to Nigeria’s economic independence from oil reliance. “Farming will be our source of prosperity and growth,” he declared, expressing gratitude towards past governors and traditional leaders for their unwavering support.
Governor Radda highlighted the impact of federal interventions in the state, detailing a N25 billion investment that led to the acquisition of 400 tractors for local farming initiatives. He reported significant infrastructure developments, including 160 kilometers of constructed and rehabilitated roads, improved power and water supply, and enhanced healthcare services over the period.
Both former governors and a host of other dignitaries, including ministers, attended the commissioning, showcasing a united front for progress in Nigeria’s agricultural and infrastructural development.