Katsina Approves ₦20 Million per LGA for Graveyard Renovation, Rolls Out Welfare for Traditional Leaders

The Katsina State Government has approved ₦20 million for each of the 34 Local Government Areas to renovate and upgrade graveyards, Governor Dikko Radda announced on Thursday during a meeting with traditional rulers from the Katsina and Daura Emirates.

Describing the initiative as both a public service and a spiritual gesture, Radda said, “This is a way of seeking Allah’s blessings for our state.”

In addition to the renovation project, the governor unveiled a comprehensive welfare package aimed at empowering traditional and religious leaders. He revealed that under a new law passed by the Katsina State House of Assembly:

• All District Heads will now earn salaries not less than Grade Level 16.
• 6,652 Ward Heads across the state will receive monthly allowances.
• Over 3,000 Imams and their deputies serving in Friday Mosques will get monthly stipends.
• Sweepers of Izala and Darika mosques in every local government area will also benefit from allowances.

Governor Radda reiterated that improving security remains his administration’s top priority. He noted that more than 1,500 youths have been trained and equipped with uniforms, life jackets, and operational tools to support security efforts across the state.

“Security is a collective responsibility. We must unite to protect our people,” he urged, calling on traditional and community leaders to enhance public awareness and community involvement in local safety.

Earlier in the event, the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruq-Umar—represented by the District Head of Baure, Alhaji Daha Umar-Farouq—expressed solidarity with the governor following a recent car accident in Daura.

Also speaking, the Wazirin Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, who represented the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir-Usman, commended Governor Radda’s efforts in restoring dignity to traditional institutions. He praised the reforms for strengthening the role of traditional leadership in governance and community development.

The Emirate Council, he assured, would continue supporting the government through prayers and collaboration to ensure lasting peace, unity, and prosperity in the state.