Katsina Governor Announces Support for Reintegration of Repentant Criminals

Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has announced that the government will assist bandits who choose to abandon violence and seek a peaceful life. He made the statement on Thursday during the opening ceremony of 152 new housing units built for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia Local Government Area.

Radda called on individuals involved in banditry, kidnapping and other violent offenses to lay down their arms and return to their communities. He emphasized that the administration remains open to dialogue, repentance and rehabilitation for those who truly wish to change.

According to the governor, people who leave criminal activities and embrace peace will have access to programs designed to help them rebuild their lives through lawful means.

The housing project, which began in October 2024, was carried out in partnership between the Katsina State Government and various development partners to provide shelter for families displaced by insecurity.

Radda highlighted that the initiative also included the construction of a Climate Peace Entrepreneurship Centre, a solar mini‑grid for electrification, a veterinary clinic, market stalls, VIP toilets at the cattle market, rehabilitation of the cattle loading ramp, and the provision of potable water and street lighting.

He noted that security in Jibia has improved in recent years, enabling farmers to return to their fields and boosting agricultural production and economic activity.

Radda thanked development partners such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the German Government through GIZ, and the Norwegian Government, stressing that sustained collaboration is essential for addressing insecurity, displacement and poverty in the state.