Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has accepted the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, himself and all All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates for the 2027 General Elections by the Non-Indigenes Association of Katsina State (NIAK).
A statement signed by Ibrahim kaula Mohammad, chief press secretary to the Governor,said Governor Radda accepted the endorsement during the commissioning of the Non-Indigenes APC Campaign Office and the official endorsement ceremony held in Katsina.
The Governor described the overwhelming support as a clear demonstration of national unity, peaceful coexistence and growing confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s inclusive leadership.
Receiving the endorsement, Governor Radda expressed appreciation to the association for organising the event and commended members for their unity, discipline and peaceful conduct.
“I sincerely thank you for this overwhelming endorsement. On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I gladly accept your endorsement for his re-election in 2027. I also humbly accept your endorsement for my re-election as Governor of Katsina State, as well as your support for all APC candidates in the forthcoming general elections.” The governor stated.
Governor Radda described the gathering as a true reflection of Nigeria’s diversity, noting that people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds came together under one platform in support of national unity and democratic governance.
“The kind of unity I have seen here today gives me renewed hope that Nigeria will continue to grow stronger. You came here voluntarily, without being sponsored by anyone, simply because of your love for Katsina State, your confidence in this administration and your belief in the future of our country.” he said.
The Governor disclosed that he had carefully listened to the requests presented by the leadership of the association and directed the Secretary to the State Government to study the proposals and advise the government accordingly.
“I have taken note of all your requests and have directed the Secretary to the State Government to look into them. We shall carefully consider every request in line with government policies and available resources.” he noted.
Governor Radda also approved the association’s request for regular engagement with the government and announced that Government House would host their traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders in July for a comprehensive interactive meeting.
“I have granted your request for an audience. By the grace of God, sometime in July, we shall meet with your traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders at Government House to discuss issues affecting the non-indigene community, our peaceful coexistence and the continued development of Katsina State.” he added.
Responding to appeals by the association’s women leaders and market women, Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to women empowerment and economic development.
“We have heard your request for grants and empowerment programmes. We will continue to do everything humanly possible to support women, strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods because women remain critical partners in the development of our state.” he assured.
The Governor stressed that his administration does not regard members of the non-indigene community as strangers but as equal partners in the development of Katsina State.
“We do not see you as non-indigenes; we see you as indigenes of Katsina State because you contribute immensely to our economy, our peace and our development. Wherever you choose to live, work and contribute becomes your home. Katsina is your home, and this government belongs to all of us.” he stated.
He further assured the community of the government’s commitment to protecting lives, businesses and property across the state.
“I assure you that this administration will continue to protect every resident of Katsina State without discrimination. We will safeguard your lives, your property and your legitimate businesses so that everyone can live peacefully and prosper.” he assured.
The event also featured the presentation of several awards to Governor Radda in recognition of his transformational leadership and outstanding developmental achievements by the non-indigene communities in Katsina State.
Earlier, the Executive President of the Non-Indigenes Association of Katsina State (NIAK), Prince Kunle Awe (JP), described the commissioning of the Non-Indigenes APC Campaign Office as a historic milestone in the association’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
He applauded Governor Radda’s achievements in security, healthcare, education, civil service reforms and inclusive governance, describing him as a leader who has made Katsina safe and welcoming for all residents.
He formally endorsed President Tinubu and Governor Radda for the 2027 elections and pledged extensive grassroots mobilisation across the 34 Local Government Areas of the state.
Prince Awe also presented a nine-point request to the Governor, including land for a permanent NIAK Secretariat, empowerment programmes, greater inclusion in governance, political appointments, employment opportunities, patronage for qualified contractors, access to admissions into state-owned tertiary institutions, institutional support and pilgrimage slots for Christian and Muslim members.
Also, Former Deputy Governor of Katsina State and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Hon. Tukur Ahmed Jikamshi, described the non-indigene community as a formidable political force and commended Governor Radda for promoting inclusive governance.
He urged the administration to sustain regular engagement with the association.
In the same vein, Special Assistant to the Governor on Non-Indigene Affairs, Hon. Chief Chukwuka Okoye, appreciated Governor Radda for creating opportunities for non-indigenes to contribute meaningfully to governance and assured him of the association’s unwavering support for President Tinubu, Governor Radda and the APC ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
On her part, the Women Leader of the association, Mrs. Ana Wali, commended Governor Radda’s inclusive leadership and sustained commitment to women empowerment and grassroots development.
She described Katsina as her home after living in the state for nearly five decades.
The event was attended by the Speaker Katsina State House of Assembly, Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; members of the Katsina State Executive Council; top government officials; political stakeholders; traditional and religious leaders; and members of the Non-Indigenes Association of Katsina State (NIAK).
