Katsina EXCO Approves Key Reforms to Drive Development, Power Supply, and Security

Caption: Katsina State Executive Council endorses NGO regulation, workforce training reforms, renewable energy projects, and security follow-up mechanisms.

The Katsina State Executive Council (EXCO), under the leadership of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved a series of strategic policy measures aimed at accelerating development across the state. The decisions were taken at the Council’s third meeting of 2026.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the government said the approvals span institutional reforms, human capital development, power infrastructure, and security governance.

Regulation of NGOs:
EXCO approved a comprehensive framework to coordinate and regulate the activities of international and local non-governmental organisations (INGOs/NGOs) operating in Katsina State. The policy prioritises merit-based recruitment, giving preference to qualified indigenes and residents, strengthens transparency and oversight, and promotes collaboration with the Katsina State Development Management Board (KTDMB). The framework is also expected to create jobs for youths, build local capacity, and enhance trust between the state government and development partners.

Targeted Workforce Training:
To curb waste and improve efficiency, the Council endorsed a new training policy ensuring that only staff with clear operational needs and long-term service value are selected for capacity-building programmes. The reform addresses past practices where personnel close to retirement or without relevant roles were nominated for training, leading to financial losses for the state.

Renewable Energy Initiative:
As part of efforts to expand reliable electricity supply, EXCO approved the deployment of 500kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with 2MWh Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across selected ministries and public facilities. The initiative aims to reduce fuel costs, improve energy sustainability, and enable critical government infrastructure to operate independently of the national grid.

Electricity Infrastructure Upgrade:
The Council also approved the procurement of 200 electricity transformers for installation in underserved areas across the state, a move intended to improve power distribution and support economic activities.

Security and Governance:
EXCO ratified the implementation of recommendations from the Statewide Security and Governance Dialogue convened by Governor Radda. The measures will serve as a roadmap for strengthening peace, security, and sustainable development, including the establishment of a Katsina State Peace Monitoring Committee.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to accountable governance and policies designed to deliver tangible benefits to residents of Katsina State.