Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has launched Phase 10 of the Gwagware Foundation Ramadan Empowerment Programme, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups across Katsina State.
The launch, held at the foundation’s headquarters in Katsina, marks a decade of sustained humanitarian interventions targeting widows, orphans and other disadvantaged persons ahead of the Ramadan fast. The programme is expected to reach beneficiaries in all 361 wards of the state.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda described the foundation as a key partner in advancing social welfare and community empowerment initiatives.
“For about ten years, the foundation has consistently carried out its humanitarian programmes without interruption, focusing on assisting widows, orphans and the less privileged across communities,” he said.
The governor noted that the foundation’s impact has expanded over time, with increased participation from local government chairmen and other stakeholders. He reaffirmed his role as grand patron and pledged continued support for its objectives.
He also commended the foundation’s partnership with Salson Designers, which he said would enhance skills acquisition, vocational training and economic empowerment for youths and women across the state. According to him, efforts are underway to extend the partnership to all local government areas.
Governor Radda further announced that Ramadan food packages would be distributed across all wards to ensure vulnerable households receive support during the fasting period.
Chairman of the Gwagware Foundation, Alhaji Yusuf Aliyu Musawa
Earlier, Chairman of the Gwagware Foundation, Alhaji Yusuf Aliyu Musawa, described the 10th Ramadan programme as a milestone reflecting ten years of service to vulnerable communities.
He said the foundation has expanded its focus to include education, women empowerment and youth vocational training. Musawa disclosed that the foundation established the Nana Safara’u Umar Radda College of Advanced Studies, equipped with modern teaching facilities, an e-library and smart classrooms, and is partnering with the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) and the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) to enhance educational opportunities.
He added that the current phase of the programme includes food distribution to orphans and the needy across the state’s wards, as well as recognition of 506 party delegates from previous primaries.
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, described the gathering as a demonstration of strong community support for the foundation’s initiatives. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to collaborating with local contractors and entrepreneurs to stimulate economic growth and employment.
Chief Executive Officer of Salson Designers, Anas Salisu, said the partnership focuses on vocational training in sewing and fashion design, providing participants with industrial machines, practical skills and mentorship in entrepreneurship and branding.
Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, described the occasion as a significant milestone, while other dignitaries, including traditional leaders and members of the State Executive Council, commended the foundation’s leadership and called for sustained support from stakeholders.
The event was attended by local government chairmen, traditional rulers, business leaders and other stakeholders from across the state.
