*Press Release*

Katsina State Governor, Malam  Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army for their diligent efforts in combating insecurity within the state. Governor Radda conveyed his appreciation during a courtesy visit to Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff.

During the visit, Governor Radda extended his official congratulations to the Chief of Army Staff on his appointment and commended the officers and soldiers of the army for their patriotic dedication to addressing the state's security challenges. He specifically acknowledged the support of the brigade commander in Katsina State, describing his assistance in managing and confronting insecurity as invaluable.

In his own words, Governor Radda stated, "I want to appreciate the brigade commander in Katsina State. He has been supportive to us in managing and tackling the challenges of insecurity that has been disturbing and affecting the people of the state. I came personally to congratulate you and also seek more collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Katsina State government. In fact, without the presence of the Nigerian Army in Katsina, we wouldn't have known how the situation in the state would have been. But the army's support has been great, and we will continue to ask for more support."

The governor emphasized that Katsina State has long suffered from banditry, mainly due to its proximity to Niger and extensive forests that border about eight local governments. This vulnerability has made the communities susceptible to bandit attacks, with reports of daily incidents in some areas. Governor Radda pleaded with the Chief of Army Staff to expand Operation Hadarin Daji to cover all 19 local governments, believing it would significantly address the state's insecurity issue.

Governor Radda's administration has held meetings with various stakeholders, including retired army generals and police officers, to establish a unified security unit involving local residents. The goal is to enhance information gathering and effective patrols, aided by technology, to combat insecurity. The state government has also provided logistical support, including patrol vehicles and motorcycles, and deployed technology to aid the military and police in their efforts.

The governor appealed for additional support from the army, including the establishment of more barracks and military facilities within the state. In response, the Chief of Army Staff expressed gratitude for the state government's support and praised their efforts in organizing the Community Watch Officers effectively. He assured that the army is ready to expand Operation Hadarin Daji, but it requires planning and federal government intervention due to funding and resource needs.

The Chief of Army Staff affirmed their commitment to combating criminal elements and recognized the state government's deployment of cameras in the bordering local governments, which would aid the Nigerian Army in addressing challenges effectively. While awaiting federal government support, the army headquarters pledged to provide immediate assistance to tackle the ongoing security challenges in Katsina State.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed,

Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor.

18th September 2023.