By Faith Awa Maji, Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda in collaboration with the International Donor Agency and R.H. Equipt, have announced the disbursement of over N470 million to victims of banditry and COVID-19 in the State.
The initiative aimed at alleviating the economic hardship caused by the scourges.
Governor Radda made the disclosure during the flag-off ceremony held at the Kabir Aliyu Maska Hall on Monday in Katsina.
He disclosed that 550 victims of armed banditry received N150, 000 each, totaling N82.5 million while 3,876 COVID-19 victims received N100, 000 each, amounting to N387.6 million. “This brings the total disbursement to N470 million, excluding the cost of training provided to beneficiaries across Katsina’s 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs).”
According to Governor Radda, the programme is in fulfillment of a campaign promise he made during the January 2023 BBC Governorship debate.
Recall during the debate, Radda expressed his commitment to empowering those affected by banditry and COVID-19, particularly women and girls hit by the scourge.
Governor Radda commended the State Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development as well as the State’s House of Assembly for their role in selecting and training the beneficiaries.
The Commissioner Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Professor Ahmad Muhammad Bakori, expressed gratitude to the Governor and R.H. EQUIPT for the support given to the programme.
Professor Muhammad Yusuf Dandume, representing R.H. EQUIPT, reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the Katsina State Government to achieve success in this programme.
