- Recruitment Transparent, No Political Interference — Safana
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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda has inducted 1,020 newly recruited frontline health workers to strengthen Primary Healthcare Centres across Katsina State.
Speaking at the induction ceremony held at the Local Government Service Commission Conference Hall, the Governor said the recruitment marks another major step in rebuilding the state’s health sector.
He described Primary Healthcare as the foundation of the health system and said his administration will continue to invest in it.
“A healthy population is the backbone of development. That is why we placed Primary Healthcare at the centre of our agenda,” he said.
Governor Radda disclosed that the state government has upgraded 268 Primary Healthcare Centres at a cost of over N26.7 billion. The upgrades include renovations, medical equipment, tricycle ambulances, and improved water and sanitation facilities.
He added that plans are underway to upgrade remaining facilities to ensure that all 361 wards have functional Level 2 Primary Healthcare Centres.
The Governor also revealed that over N3 billion has been released for nutrition programmes targeting women, children, and vulnerable groups. In addition, 724 health professionals have been recruited in the last two years to strengthen secondary healthcare services.
Governor Radda stressed that the recruitment of the 1,020 workers followed due process and was free from political interference.
“More than 75 percent of those recruited today were already serving as casual health workers. We rewarded loyalty, experience, and dedication,” he said.
He assured the new workers of government support in training and welfare but urged them to serve with discipline, compassion, and professionalism.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Recruitment Committee and Special Adviser on Local Government Inspectorate, Alhaji Lawal Rufa’i Safana, said the process was credible and strictly based on merit.
He disclosed that the committee received 9,045 applications for the 1,020 positions. After screening, 3,658 candidates were shortlisted for examination. Of that number, 3,445 sat for the exam across seven centres in the state.
A total of 2,309 candidates passed and were invited for interviews. The best 30 candidates were selected from each of the 34 local government areas, making up the final 1,020 successful recruits.
“We applied every rule without fear or favour. The Governor did not interfere. He encouraged fairness and justice,” Safana said.
He added that 754 of the successful candidates were former casual workers who were prioritised in recognition of their years of service.
According to him, the exercise will also create room to engage new volunteer health graduates in the system.
In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Agency Dr. Shamsudeen Yahaya, described the recruitment as a turning point for healthcare delivery in Katsina.
He said the 1,020 workers represent hope for families across the state, especially in rural communities.
“These are not just numbers. They are frontline caregivers who will save lives and improve health outcomes,” he said.
He urged the new workers to take their oath seriously and serve with compassion and dedication.
The event was attended by top government, Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; all 34 Local Government Chairmen led by the ALGON; members of the Katsina State Executive Council; community leaders; and development partners.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
12th February 2026
