Katsina Radio Undergoes Major Upgrade as Management Hails Radda's Support

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar 

The General Manager of the Katsina State Radio Service, Lawal Attahiru Bakori, says the station has undergone significant transformation under the administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, leading to improved broadcasting capacity and better working conditions for staff.

Bakori stated this in an interview with Katsina Times on Tuesday after officials of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Radio Chapel, alongside the newspaper's correspondent, inspected ongoing renovation and upgrade projects at the station's headquarters in Katsina and its Dutsinma transmission station.

He said the projects, which include rehabilitation of buildings, installation of solar-powered electricity, refurbishment of operational vehicles and motorcycles, as well as improved technical facilities, have significantly enhanced the station's operations.

 "Anyone who visited this station two years ago and returns today will clearly see the remarkable transformation. We have received every support we requested from the state government to improve our operations," Bakori said.

According to him, the state government has also embarked on the construction of three new FM radio stations in Katsina, Daura and Funtua, adding that one of the stations is nearing completion while work is progressing on the remaining two.

He said similar renovation works had been carried out at the state television station, describing the intervention as unprecedented since the establishment of the state-owned broadcast media.

Bakori urged members of staff to reciprocate the government's investment by demonstrating greater commitment and professionalism.

 "The Katsina State Radio has now returned to full operation. Our responsibility is to continue improving our programmes and expand our presence on digital media platforms," he added.

Also speaking, Chairman of the NUJ Katsina State Radio Chapel, Khalid Hafiz Bakori, commended the state government for investing in public broadcast infrastructure.

He said the installation of a solar power system had resolved the station's long-standing electricity challenges, enabling uninterrupted transmission from morning until night and expanding its reach to communities across Katsina State, including rural areas.

According to him, the improved transmission will strengthen public enlightenment campaigns on education, health and other government programmes.

Khalid also praised the General Manager for facilitating the execution of the projects.

Meanwhile, the Officer in Charge of the Dutsinma Transmission Station, Nura Ballo, described the intervention as the most comprehensive upgrade since the facility was established about 30 years ago.

He said the project included the provision of potable water, installation of solar power, replacement of the station's generator with a more fuel-efficient one, rehabilitation of transmitter buildings, staff quarters, offices and a mosque.

Ballo noted that before the intervention, staff struggled with frequent power outages and high fuel costs, limiting broadcasting hours.

 "Previously, we could only operate for a few hours because of power and fuel challenges. Today, we can transmit for much longer periods with far less operational cost," he said.