Katsina State has recorded two major milestones as Governor Dikko Umaru Radda signed the 2026 Appropriation Act into law and commissioned the Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network alongside an Independent Solar Power Plant. The developments reflect the administration’s commitment to strengthening transparency, improving service delivery and expanding digital access across the state.
Governor Radda described the 2026 budget as a people driven financial plan shaped through extensive consultations across all 361 wards. The ₦897.8 billion budget allocates 81 percent to capital expenditure, the highest in the state’s history and 18 percent to recurrent spending, the lowest ever recorded. He commended the State House of Assembly for its swift and diligent work, noting that Katsina became the first sub national entity in Nigeria to both submit and sign the 2026 budget.
The Governor attributed the smooth passage of the budget to robust citizen involvement, which saw more than 78,000 residents outline their priority needs during ward level engagements. He said the inclusive approach eliminated disagreements and ensured that the budget truly reflects community demands. He pledged to deepen grassroots participation next year by extending consultations to polling units.
Governor Radda also highlighted significant improvements in security across the state, revealing a reduction in insurgency related medical expenses and a decline in incidents reported to security agencies. He linked this progress to sustained government interventions, greater community collaboration and targeted support to farmers across all 6,652 polling units. According to him, the ongoing bumper harvest and renewed confidence among rural residents are clear indicators of steady progress.
In a separate engagement, Governor Radda commissioned the Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network and an Independent Solar Power Plant, describing the projects as critical to the state’s digital transformation agenda. He explained that the fibre infrastructure valued at over ₦4 billion became possible through the state’s waiver of Right of Way charges which encouraged private sector investment in broadband expansion.
The Governor stated that the fibre network will boost access to fast and affordable internet, support digital learning, enhance e-governance and open new opportunities for young people in innovation, entrepreneurship and remote work. He added that all local government headquarters will eventually enjoy free internet access while at least one Digital Touchpoint Centre will be established in every LGA to strengthen digital inclusion.
Both the budget signing and fibre commissioning ceremonies were attended by members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, traditional leaders and key stakeholders. Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparent governance, digital competitiveness, and citizen focused development as Katsina moves into a new phase of economic and technological advancement.
