Celebrates 2025 Hawan Magajiya
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to preserving Daura’s revered cultural heritage, describing the annual Sallah Gani Daura Festival as “a living testament to our history, our strength, and our resilience, a day when past and present meet, when we honour our ancestors and renew our hope for the future.”
Speaking this afternoon in the historic city widely regarded as the cradle of Hausa civilization. Governor Radda reminded the gathering that Daura occupies a unique place in Nigeria’s history.
“This is the land of Bayajidda, the birthplace of the Hausa Bakwai, the first home of Islam in Hausaland, and a historic centre of knowledge, justice, and governance,” he said.
Governor Radda stressed that true development must go beyond roads and buildings to include preserving the identity and values that define a people.
“That is why we are investing in cultural tourism, restoring historical sites, and promoting traditional festivals like Gani Daura as treasures of national pride,” he declared.
He announced that work is ongoing to rehabilitate key historical landmarks in Daura, including the iconic Kusugu Well, the ancient city walls, and the old palace complex.
The governor further revealed plans to transform Daura into a hub for intercultural exchange and pilgrimage tourism, an initiative expected to generate jobs and boost economic opportunities for residents.
In partnership with the Emirate Council, the administration is also digitising oral histories, training young historians, and integrating cultural education into school curricula to ensure Daura’s rich legacy is preserved for generations to come.
Governor Radda expressed pride in participating in the festival, which commemorates the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), noting that the occasion goes beyond pageantry.
“This festival is not just a cultural event. It is a day when our traditional rulers, our horsemen, and our people come together in full splendour, proudly displaying the richness of our heritage,” he said.
He paid glowing tribute to the Emir of Daura, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Faruk Umar, praising his wisdom and commitment to upholding the traditions that unite the people.
The governor also used the occasion to charge the youth to draw inspiration from the day’s colourful celebrations:
“Let the courage of the horsemen inspire you to stand firm for truth. Let the loyalty of the palace guards teach you to serve your community faithfully. Let the wisdom of the Emir guide you to choose peace over violence.”
He called on security agencies to remain vigilant to ensure the Gani Daura Festival continues to hold peacefully for generations to come.
Governor Radda appealed to citizens across the state to remain united, stressing that whether they come from Daura, Funtua, Kankara, Malumfashi, or Zango, they share one history and one destiny.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for easing the economic burden on citizens, noting that food prices have dropped significantly over the past year, bringing much-needed relief to households.
The governor also prayed for former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying:
“May Allah forgive him, have mercy on him, accept his repentance, and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”
Governor Radda concluded by urging citizens to intensify prayers for peace, security, and love among one another.
“This festival is our pride, it defines us as Bahaushe. We must never allow it to fade. It shows the world who we are: a people of tradition, a people of faith, a people whose history commands respect across Nigeria and Africa,” he affirmed.
The 2025 Gani Daura Festival was graced by an array of dignitaries, including the Right Honourable Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly (represented by the Honourable Member for Sandamu), the Honourable Member representing Daura, members of the legislature, and senior government officials.
Also in attendance were Her Excellency Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda, wife of the Governor; the wife of the Deputy Governor; the Emir of Daura; the Chairman of Daura Local Government; other local government chairmen; members of the State Executive Council; the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Katsina State; district and village heads; and a cross-section of distinguished guests.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
07 September, 2025
