By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina TIMES
The Katsina State Government, in collaboration with the European Union (EU) and key development partners, has commissioned a newly renovated primary healthcare centre in Yarmaiwa community of Batsari Local Government Area. The initiative is part of the EU’s Conflict Mitigation and Community Reconciliation Project (CMCRP), under which 26 "Quick Impact Projects" (QIPs) are being implemented to promote peace and improve living conditions in conflict-affected areas.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari, who represented Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, described the project as “a symbol of hope, unity, and progress.” He commended the European Union, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Mercy Corps, and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) for their crucial roles in delivering the intervention.
“These 26 projects across Batsari, Kankara, Jibia, and Musawa were not chosen by the government or donors alone,” Faskari noted. “They were carefully selected by the beneficiary communities through a participatory planning process.”
He further stated that the renovated healthcare centre, now powered by solar energy, would provide essential medical services, access to clean drinking water, and even veterinary support. “Today’s event marks more than just the opening of a facility it is the launch of a new system that reinforces community resilience, enhances local governance, and lays the foundation for lasting peace in Katsina State,” he said.
Representing the IOM, Mr Musa Abdullahi explained that the CMCRP aims to rehabilitate conflict-affected areas in northwest Nigeria by focusing on two main objectives: strengthening peaceful coexistence through community-driven dialogue and enhancing local governance structures.
“We have established Community Reconciliation Networks (CRNs) and Early Warning and Response Systems to prevent the outbreak of violence,” Abdullahi explained. “Training has also been provided for youth, women, traditional leaders, farmers, herders, and civil servants on mediation and conflict resolution.”
He added that the renovated healthcare centre, complete with a solar-powered water system, would serve both humans and livestock reflecting a holistic support strategy for both the state government and local communities.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Mukhtar Saulawa, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Katsina State Government and Chairman of the Project Steering Committee (PSC), appreciated the EU for approving a six-month extension to the programme after initial delays. He announced that a new project phase would commence in July, benefiting the top eight most conflict-affected LGAs in the state.
“I urge all beneficiary communities to take ownership of these projects. The Community Development Committee led by Dr Kamal will play a key role in sustaining them,” Saulawa added.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Senior Special Assistant on victims of banditry and Internally Displaced Persons to the Governor on Victims of Banditry, Sa’idu Ibrahim Kogunan Jibia; the Special Adviser on Livestock and Grazing, Yusuf Suleman Jibiya; the Chairman of Batsari Local Government Area; and other community leaders.
This development represents a significant step in Katsina State’s broader effort to restore peace and improve infrastructure in communities previously affected by insecurity.
