* LG Stakeholders Praise Gov Radda Reforms
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has restated his commitment to public service reform aimed at sanitising the state’s civil service and improving efficiency.
A statement signed by Ibrahim kaula Mohammad Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said the Governor made this known while hosting a delegation of heads of local government administration, treasurers, and directors at the Government House.
The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Usman Aliyu Maska.
“My administration remains committed to ensuring improved service delivery at both the state and local government levels,” Governor Radda said.
The Governor disclosed that his administration has introduced competency examinations for permanent secretaries, explaining that the examinations are designed to enhance professionalism and accountability in the public service.
“The state government has also revitalised and upgraded the College of Administration in Funtua to strengthen the training and retraining of civil servants. Three capacity-building centres have been established to provide training for teachers during school holidays,” the Governor added.
While commending the improved discipline across local government councils, Governor Radda issued a stern warning to management staff.
“Do not divert funds meant for specific projects. Such acts are financial misconduct and are punishable by dismissal,” the Governor warned.
He also directed the Special Adviser on Local Government Inspectorate to work with council chairmen to ensure the provision of official vehicles for heads of local government administration and directors.
The Local Government Service Commission Chairman, Usman Aliyu Maska, praised the Governor’s reform agenda, stating that this visit is to reaffirm the commission support for the governor’s reform agenda.
“It has created a level playing field and improved service delivery at the grassroots. Katsina State is increasingly becoming a reference point for effective development policies,” Maska said.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in the state, Nasiru Wada, also commended the Governor, explaining that the policy direction is commendable, particularly initiatives aimed at improving workers’ welfare at both state and local government levels. The introduction of a pension scheme designed to enhance the well-being of retirees is particularly appreciated,” Wada said.
Wada also praised the appointment of a Special Adviser on Local Government Inspectorate to address complaints from the recent screening of local government staff.
The Chairman of the Heads of Local Government Forum, Mukhtar Aminu Bakori, praised the Governor for granting financial autonomy to local governments.
However, Bakori appealed for the release of funds to enable councils to procure official vehicles for directors. He also called for the revival of overseas training programmes for local government officials.
