Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across Katsina State, as a new Commissioner of Police, Umar Fagge, assumes duty in the state.
The governor made this known at the Government House while receiving the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 14, Bello Shehu, alongside the outgoing commissioner and his successor.
Radda said the state has recorded significant improvement in security, particularly in frontline local government areas previously affected by banditry, attributing the progress to enhanced collaboration among security agencies and community structures.
“We have seen improved stability in many areas that were once highly volatile. Our security agencies, working with community structures, have made remarkable progress in restoring peace,” he said.
He stressed the need for sustained synergy among the police, military, civil defence, and community-based initiatives, noting that the establishment of the Katsina Community Watch Corps has strengthened intelligence gathering and rapid response.
The governor assured the new police commissioner of continued government support to enhance operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, AIG Shehu commended the governor’s security reforms, while the outgoing commissioner expressed appreciation for the support received during his tenure.
Fagge, who brings over three decades of policing experience across several states, pledged to prioritise intelligence-led policing, proactive operations, and community engagement to sustain peace and protect lives and property.
In a related development, Governor Radda also met with a high-powered delegation from Katsina Local Government Area over rising incidents of gang violence within the state capital.
The meeting, led by the council chairman, Isah Miqdad, brought together security agencies, community leaders, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to deliberate on the growing threat of street clashes.
Discussions focused on assessing the situation, identifying emerging risks, and developing coordinated strategies to restore public safety and confidence.
Radda pledged full support to the local government in tackling the challenge, emphasising the importance of collaboration among authorities and residents.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu; the Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Fadila Mohammed Dikko; and the member representing Katsina Local Government in the State House of Assembly, Aliyu Abubakar Albaba.
Security chiefs, religious leaders, and members of the business community were also present.
The engagements highlight the state government’s renewed push to consolidate security gains while addressing emerging threats in both rural and urban areas.
