Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda on Monday announced the disbursement of over N470 million to victims of banditry and COVID-19 in the state.
The initiative, delivered in partnership with the International Donor Agency and R.H. Equipt, aims to alleviate the economic hardship caused by the crises.
A statement by Dikko’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed revealed that the flag-off ceremony of the event was held at the Kabir Aliyu Maska Hall.
Governor Radda disclosed at the event that 550 victims of armed banditry received N150,000 each, totaling N82.5 million; while 3,876 COVID-19 victims received N100,000 each, amounting to N387.6 million.
The total amount disbursed was put at N470 million, excluding the cost of training provided to beneficiaries across Katsina’s 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
According to Governor Radda, this programme is a fulfilment of a campaign promise he made during the January 2023 BBC Governorship debate. The Governor expressed then, his commitment to empowering those affected by banditry and COVID-19, particularly women and girls hit by the scourge.
Speaking at the occasion, the Governor commended the Katsina State Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development as well as the State’s House of Assembly for their role in selecting and training the beneficiaries.
The Commissioner Ministry of Agriculture and livestock Development, Professor Ahmad Bakori, expressed gratitude to the Governor and R.H. EQUIPT for the support given to the programme.
Professor Muhammad Dandume, representing R.H. EQUIPT, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to collaborating with the Katsina State Government to achieve success in the programme.