The Kanwan Katsina and District Head of Ketare in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara, mni, has clocked 25 years on the throne of his forefathers as Kanwan Katsina the Second.
Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara was turbaned on the 4th of November, 2000 by the late Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Muhammadu Kabir Usman, following the demise of his father, Alhaji Bello Nadabo, the first Kanwan Katsina.
A retired Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, the Kanwan Katsina has, over the last twenty-five years, demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and courage in promoting the development of his community in critical sectors including education, health, agriculture, social welfare, and information technology.
Transforming Education and Empowering Youths
Before his ascension to the throne, Ketare District had no secondary school. Through his vision and community mobilization, several Community Day Secondary Schools were established in Ketare, Kuka Sheka, Pauwa, Tudu, Ganzamawa, Gundawa Tsamiyar Jino, and Katoge.
He also facilitated the construction of UK Bello Primary School in Ganzamawa and encouraged other communities within the district to establish their own primary schools. His efforts in liaising with the Katsina State Government led to the construction of additional classrooms in Pauwa and Tsamiyar Jino.
In the area of digital literacy, the Kanwan Katsina organized computer training programmes that have so far benefited over 300 youths, with plans underway for a second phase.
Advancing Healthcare and Social Welfare
The traditional ruler has played a vital role in ensuring the success of polio immunization, nutrition support for mothers and children, and other health initiatives through close collaboration with the Kankara Local Government Health Department.
He also worked with the National Identity Management Commission and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that eligible citizens in Ketare District obtained their National ID cards and Voter’s cards, earning him a letter of commendation from the NIMC.
Promoting Agriculture and Infrastructure Development
In partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria, WACOT Funtua, and the Cassava Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara facilitated access to loans and the Anchor Borrowers Programme for farmers in his district.
He also liaised with the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure the completion of the Kankara–Gurbi road, a major federal infrastructure project that improved connectivity and commerce.
Champion of Peace, Development, and Governance Support
The Kanwan Katsina has been a strong advocate of peace and stability, actively supporting the Katsina State Government’s amnesty programme and community watch initiatives aimed at curbing banditry and insecurity.
Through collaboration with agencies such as CSDP, SDG Office, RUWASA, and the Katsina State Education Trust Fund, the district has witnessed remarkable improvements in education, sanitation, and community infrastructure.
He has also maintained a close relationship with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Katsina State Council and FRCN Kaduna, recognizing the importance of the media in promoting awareness and supporting government policies.
His partnerships with the National Population Commission (NPC) and NYSC Katsina State Secretariat have earned him letters of commendation for promoting vital registration and supporting corps members posted to his district.
Acknowledgment and Gratitude
Reflecting on his journey, the Kanwan Katsina attributed his achievements to the continuous support of successive administrations in Katsina State. He acknowledged the efforts of Late Governor Umaru Musa Yar’adua, who established the first secondary school in Ketare in 2001; Governor Ibrahim Shema, who constructed key roads connecting Ketare and neighboring communities; Governor Aminu Bello Masari, who undertook road and erosion control projects; and the incumbent Governor Dikko Umar Radda, for establishing the Community Watch Corps that strengthened local security.
Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara expressed deep appreciation to both the late Emir Muhammadu Kabir Usman, who turbaned him, and the present Emir, Alhaji Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, for their continuous guidance and confidence in his leadership.
He also thanked his district and village heads, members of his council, family, friends, and the people of Ketare District for their unwavering support throughout his 25-year reign.
A Legacy of Service and Dedication
The Kanwan Katsina reaffirmed his commitment to continue offering selfless and transparent leadership, urging his subjects to remain law-abiding and to support government policies aimed at improving the lives of citizens.
A recipient of numerous awards within and outside Katsina State, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara holds the prestigious mni designation from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, in recognition of his distinguished service and contribution to national development.
Jamilu Hashimu Gora
Sarkin Labarun Kanwan Katsina
