The Katsina State Government’s committee on the revitalisation of historical sites and preservation of cultural heritage has entered the second week of its assignment, carrying out inspections of key historical landmarks and the Mai’adua Horse Market as part of efforts to implement Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s heritage restoration initiative.
The special committee was established by Governor Radda to implement recommendations submitted by historians and other stakeholders aimed at restoring major historical sites, revitalising the traditional Eid Durbar in the Katsina and Daura Emirates, and promoting tourism through the preservation of the state’s cultural and historical heritage.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Mustapha Shehu, with Dr. Sada Salisu Rumah (Danwairen Katsina) serving as deputy chairman.
During the second phase of its assignment, Dr. Rumah led the delegation to the Mai’adua Horse Market and several important historical sites within the Katsina Emirate to assess their condition and identify the restoration work required.
The committee first paid a courtesy visit to the Galadiman Daura, Engineer Ahmadu Diddiri Ahmed, where members explained the purpose of their visit to the Mai’adua Horse Market. The traditional title holder commended Governor Radda for initiating the heritage restoration programme, describing it as a significant step towards preserving the dignity of the state’s traditional institutions while boosting tourism.
At the Mai’adua Horse Market, the committee inspected trading activities and consulted horse breeders and dealers on strategies for strengthening one of the region’s oldest and most significant horse markets. The discussions centred on sourcing quality horses to enhance the annual Eid Durbar celebrations in Katsina and Daura Emirates.
The delegation later inspected the historic Gobarau Minaret, one of Katsina State’s most iconic monuments. Using drone technology, committee members carried out an aerial survey of the site to determine the scope of restoration and conservation work required.
The committee also examined the pond located behind the minaret after residents expressed concern that seasonal flooding and soil erosion posed a threat to the ancient structure, particularly during the rainy season.
Members measured the surrounding land as part of plans to expand the site into a comprehensive heritage, research and learning centre that would include a conference hall and educational facilities, in line with recommendations contained in the experts’ report.
A resident of the area, Alhaji Sani Saleh Galadunchi, said filling the pond and providing a proper drainage system would eliminate persistent flooding while creating additional space for the expansion of the Gobarau heritage complex.
Similarly, the Ward Head of Gobarau, Malam Hamisu Ladan, said resolving the drainage problem would improve the environment around the monument and make it more attractive to tourists.
The committee also visited the National Museum at Rafukka (Kofa Uku), where members inspected historical artefacts and identified items requiring restoration or conservation.
The delegation commended the transformation of the former Katsina Middle School, now converted into the National Museum, following extensive renovation works supported by the Katsina State Government.
Speaking to journalists, committee member and Daura history representative, Alhaji Magaji Fada Abubakar, said the state government was determined to restore the prestige of the Katsina and Daura Emirates by investing in historical sites and cultural heritage.
He noted that it had been many years since such a comprehensive effort was undertaken to preserve the state’s historical assets.
“What Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has initiated deserves commendation. This project will showcase the rich history of Katsina and Daura while attracting tourists from across Nigeria and beyond. The public should give the programme their full support,” he said.
Also speaking, the Deputy Curator of the National Museum, Katsina, Alhaji Buhari Ibrahim Rafukka, said the state government had carried out major improvements at the museum, including the installation of solar power, construction of shops, renovation of roofs, laying of floor tiles and other environmental enhancement projects.
According to him, the upgrades have enabled the museum to receive visitors even at night while strengthening its role as a centre for preserving Katsina’s history and attracting tourists.
Other members of the inspection team include representatives of the Ministry of Works, the Ministry for Local Government Affairs, officials of the National Museum and other experts responsible for implementing the recommendations on the restoration of historical sites and preservation of Katsina State’s cultural heritage.
