Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has declared that his administration is willing to support the reintegration of bandits who genuinely abandon violence and choose a peaceful path.
The governor said the state remains open to dialogue, repentance, rehabilitation, and community reintegration for individuals involved in banditry, kidnapping, and other violent activities — provided they surrender their weapons and demonstrate a sincere commitment to lawful living.
Radda made the remarks on Thursday during the inauguration of 152 housing units built for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia Local Government Area.
“Drop Your Weapons and Return Home”
Addressing residents and stakeholders at the event, Radda appealed directly to those still engaged in criminal activities to reconsider their actions and return to society.
According to him, his administration is prepared to create opportunities for repentant individuals willing to rebuild their lives and become productive members of their communities.
He said those who genuinely embrace peace would receive support aimed at helping them reintegrate and contribute positively to social and economic development.
The governor explained that the approach forms part of broader efforts to restore stability, rebuild damaged communities, and reduce the long-term impact of insecurity across Katsina State.
Housing Project Designed to Help Displaced Families Rebuild
Speaking further, Radda said the newly inaugurated housing estate was developed specifically to support families displaced by insecurity in Jibia and neighbouring communities.
He disclosed that the project began in October 2024 through a partnership involving the Katsina State Government and international development partners.
According to him, the intervention extends beyond providing shelter and includes infrastructure designed to strengthen livelihoods, improve security, and encourage long-term community resilience.
He described the initiative as part of his administration’s commitment to helping affected residents regain stability after years of disruption.
More Than Houses: Economic Recovery and Community Development
The governor noted that the project includes several additional facilities intended to support economic growth and improve living standards.
These include:
- A Climate Peace Entrepreneurship Centre
- Solar mini-grid electrification
- A veterinary clinic
- Market stalls
- VIP toilet facilities at the cattle market
- Rehabilitation of the cattle loading ramp
- Potable water infrastructure
- Installation of street lights
Radda said the facilities were designed to stimulate economic recovery, strengthen peaceful coexistence, and create better living conditions for communities affected by insecurity.
Improved Security Bringing Farmers Back to Their Fields
The governor also stated that security conditions in Jibia have improved in recent years, allowing many farmers to return to their farmlands.
According to him, the return of farming activities is critical not only for food production but also for household income and broader economic recovery across the state.
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He assured residents that his administration would continue working closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, and development organisations to sustain peace in vulnerable communities.
Governor Commends International Partners
Radda acknowledged the role played by development partners in delivering the project, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the German Government through GIZ, and the Norwegian Government.
He stressed that addressing insecurity, displacement, and poverty would require sustained collaboration and long-term commitment from government institutions, local communities, and international partners.
The governor urged beneficiaries of the housing project to protect the facilities and actively support ongoing peacebuilding efforts across the area.