Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has launched a 152-unit Mass Housing Scheme for Internally Displaced Persons, climate peace hubs, and solar mini grid in Jibia Local Government Area.
During the launch, Mr Radda said the housing project is the result of teamwork. The Katsina State Government partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the German Government through GIZ, and the Norwegian Government.
“What was then a vision is today a living reality. Recall vividly, we gathered in October 2024 to flag-off these projects. That is what hope, partnership, and resolute action can build together,” the governor stated.
He mentioned that the State Government provided land, perimeter walls, a worship centre, a school, drainage systems, access roads, and furniture. He added that the government also gave ₦500 million as free grants to 500 Jibia indigenes through the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency to help revive small businesses and restore livelihoods.
The governor noted that Jibia Local Government Area has not seen any deliberate attacks or kidnappings in the past year. “Farmers have returned to their fields. Markets are reopening. Children are back in school. Prices of staple foods are easing,” he said.
“Across the State, productivity has risen and hope is rising where fear once reigned. He reiterated his determination that the insecurity troubling the region will be history,” he added.
Governor Radda urged communities to protect the fragile peace. “Peace is not the work of government alone. It is built in every household, every market, every mosque and church, every classroom,” he said.
He also reached out to armed groups, saying, “There is a better way. The doors of dialogue, repentance, and reintegration remain open. Lay down your arms. Come back to your families. Come back to your communities,” the governor urged them.
Ms Elsie G Attafuah, Resident Representative of UNDP Nigeria, praised the Katsina State Government’s leadership and dedication. She pointed out the State’s contributions as proof of local ownership.
“Today’s investments are not the end of the story. They are the foundation for what comes next,” Attafuah said. “They are helping to create the conditions for recovery, resilience and long-term development.”
She added that development is one way peace is built. The two go hand in hand. Investment in housing, livelihoods, and opportunity helps create stability.
German Ambassador, Anneth Gunther, also spoke. She thanked the Katsina State Government for its funding towards the completion of the project. She assured the Katsina State Government of Germany’s continued support to work with UNDP and the State Government in finding ways to expand stabilization, recovery, resilience, and prevention programs in Katsina State and the Northwest region.
Earlier, Abdulhameed Ahmed Mani, Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, explained the project’s details. Construction started in October 2024 and was completed around mid-2025. Each of the 152 houses has two bedrooms, a toilet, a bathroom, and a large courtyard for small orchards and animal rearing, reflecting local practice.
“The estate includes four main water fetching points, access roads, street lights, and worship centres. Infrastructure supports daily life. It supports dignity,” Mr Mani stated.
He shared that the selection of beneficiaries was fair and transparent. A committee of traditional rulers, elders, civil society members, youth, and government officials screened applicants from all eleven wards in the Local Government. No bias. No favoritism. Just fairness.
“Beyond housing, the government pursued other initiatives. Two thousand beneficiaries received livelihood support in agriculture and small business grants. The Jibia cattle market was upgraded. A new veterinary clinic was built. Border security personnel received training on cross-border trade relations. Local Government staff were trained in counseling support services for banditry victims,” the Commissioner mentioned.
He announced that a special committee will oversee the estate after commissioning. Their job is to ensure proper maintenance and peaceful living among residents.
The National Security Adviser, represented by Abimbola Wonosiko, Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), said the project shows the power of partnership in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.
Abimbola emphasized that sustainable peace cannot be achieved only through security measures, but also through investments that strengthen livelihoods, social ties, resilience, and opportunities for vulnerable people.
Hon. Sirajo Ado Jibia, Chairman of Jibia Local Government, expressed gratitude for the project. He thanked the Governor Radda-led government and UNDP for choosing the government to benefit from these housing units and other development projects.
Others present included Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal, Speaker Nasir Yahaya Daura, Chief of Staff Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, government officials, development partners from Nigeria and beyond, and other security stakeholders.
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