Katsina, January 19, 2026
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has empowered 1,000 adolescent girls who graduated from Skills Acquisition Centres across the state with vocational starter packs, describing the initiative as a strategic investment in human capital and the future development of Katsina State.
The beneficiaries, drawn from Kaita, Funtua, Matazu, Charanchi, Dutsi, Baure, Kurfi and Mani Local Government Areas, received certificates and working tools in six trades during a graduation and empowerment ceremony organised by the Office of the Special Adviser on Girl Child Education and Child Development.
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda said the programme underscores his administration’s commitment to ensuring access to education, skills and economic opportunities for every child, particularly the girl child.
He noted that empowering girls contributes directly to family stability, community development and sustainable growth, stressing that the state government is determined to eliminate social, economic and cultural barriers that limit girls’ access to education and skills acquisition.
Governor Radda explained that the Skills Acquisition Centres have been strengthened to deliver practical, market-driven training that promotes self-reliance, dignity of labour and economic independence.
The graduands were empowered with starter packs in tailoring, knitting, leather works, cosmetology, catering and information and communication technology (ICT). The items distributed included sewing and knitting machines, leather and beauty kits, gas cookers, cooking utensils and laptops.
The Governor said the provision of tools alongside training was designed to ensure immediate productivity, urging the beneficiaries to establish viable businesses and contribute positively to their communities.
He also announced a partnership between the Katsina State Government and Green House Company to provide advanced internship and employment opportunities for 300 of the graduands, aimed at bridging the gap between skills acquisition and gainful employment.
Governor Radda commended the Office of the Special Adviser on Girl Child Education and Child Development, instructors, parents and development partners for their roles in the success of the programme, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
Special Adviser on Girl Child Education and Child Development, Hon. Jamila Abdu Mani
In her remarks, the Special Adviser on Girl Child Education and Child Development, Hon. Jamila Abdu Mani, thanked the Governor for his consistent support for the girl child and other vulnerable groups, describing the empowerment initiative as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to education and skills development.
She said the partnership with Green House Company would provide more than 300 graduands with industry exposure and pathways to sustainable livelihoods, urging the beneficiaries to use the starter packs responsibly and become role models in their communities.
Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; local government chairmen; the Chairman of Katsina Local Government Councils, Hon. Isah Miqdad; Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Ali Albaba; Chairman of Gwagware Foundation, Alhaji Yusuf Ali Musawa; members of the Katsina State Executive Council; representatives of the Katsina and Daura Emirates, as well as the graduating beneficiaries.
