As the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua clocks 15 years in the grave, it is essential to reflect on the enduring legacy he left behind, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Katsina State from 1999 to 2007.
One of his most impactful initiatives was the establishment of the School of Basic and Remedial Studies (SBRS) in Funtua under the mentorship of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He also founded the Yusuf Bala Usman College of Legal and General Studies in Daura and instituted a Professorial Chair in honour of the renowned historian Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman, to immortalize his contributions to academia.
The health sector witnessed significant transformation under Yar’Adua’s administration. He established the State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA), positioning Katsina as a pioneer in grassroots healthcare delivery. This initiative brought primary health care services closer to rural communities, complemented by the construction of numerous Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state. The Maternal and Child Hospital—now named Turai Yar’Adua Hospital—was also conceived during his tenure to reduce pressure on the state capital's main General Hospital.
In the area of water supply, Yar’Adua created the State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), which facilitated the provision of boreholes, open wells, and hand pumps in hard-to-reach communities. Several earth dams were also constructed to support irrigation and farming activities.
Road infrastructure development was a key focus, with numerous communities connected through newly constructed tarred roads. Notable projects include the Faskari–Maigora, Charanchi–Kafin Soli–Karaduwa–Matazu–Musawa–Kurkujan, and Malumfashi–Dankanjiba roads. These roads, long overdue since the military era, brought immense relief and economic opportunities to local populations.
Yar’Adua also prioritized housing and workers' welfare. The construction of the 500-unit Gauruba Housing Estate provided decent shelter to civil servants and protected them from the challenges of rent. His administration introduced housing refurbishment loans, distributed company shares to boost employee morale, ensured regular salary payments, and settled gratuities promptly. Salary advances were given to workers during Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Kabir celebrations as part of his compassionate governance.
To improve the work environment, Yar’Adua constructed a modern State Secretariat Complex, now housing most of the ministries in Katsina. He also initiated a state-of-the-art High Court Complex, which remains a standout feature of the state judiciary.
As Katsina and the nation reflect on the 15th anniversary of his passing, remembering the down-to-earth leadership of President Yar’Adua remains both essential and heartfelt. May the Almighty continue to grant him eternal rest for his selfless service to Katsina State and Nigeria.
