Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has doled out measures taken by his administration to tackle the issue of insecurity bedevilling the state, News About Nigeria reports.
He disclosed this during a visit of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, at the Government House, Katsina, on Sunday.
He noted that his administration is committed to restoring peace to the state and bringing an end to banditry and insecurity in the state.
While highlighting unemployment, illiteracy, and lack of livelihood as some of the root causes of banditry, the governor stated that his administration has taken a multifaceted approach to addressing the root causes of banditry in the state.
He disclosed that N30 billion was spent to purchase machinery for farming, and also disclosed plans to distribute over 4,000 solar-powered irrigation pumps, particularly targeting youth engagement in agriculture.
“I recognise that unemployment, illiteracy, and a lack of livelihood opportunities are major contributors to the security challenges we face,” Radda explained, adding that with approximately 90 percent of the state’s population engaged in agriculture, the state government has prioritised investment in the sector.
“Last week, we deployed about N30 billion to purchase equipment for mechanised farming,” Radda said, noting that the state government had procured and distributed more fertilisers than any other state in Nigeria.
“This initiative will not only enhance food security but also provide sustainable livelihoods for our young people,” he stated.
Radda further appealed to the COAS for continued support to the state, emphasising the importance of collaboration between the state government and the armed forces.
