KATSINA – Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Governor of Katsina state on Monday laid the foundation for a groundbreaking housing project that will provide 152 units for internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by banditry and insurgency in the State.
This initiative, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is one of the steps tailored towards addressing the housing needs of vulnerable communities in the region.
The project, designed to respect local culture and traditions, will feature essential infrastructure including connection to the national grid, a skills acquisition center, drainage networks, and road connectivity.
Governor Radda emphasized the state government’s commitment to ensuring prudent and judicious use of resources provided by the UNDP.
“We are not just building houses; we are rebuilding lives,” the Governor stated, adding that, “This project is part of a larger initiative to support 2,000 families from eight frontline local governments who have lost loved ones to criminal activities”.
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“Our goal is to provide not only shelter but also opportunities for sustainable livelihoods”, he posited.
“This housing project in Jibia Local Government Area will prioritize local sourcing of materials and manpower, contributing to the area’s economic development”, the Governor explained, urging the contractors to maintain high standards throughout the construction process.
The Head of UNDP for the North West region, Ashraf Usman, in his address, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to partnering with state governments in the area.
“Our collaborative efforts are aimed to address the root causes of challenges facing the region,” stating that, “We are focused on mobilizing timely, collective action within and across states, as well as between state and federal governments.”
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, Professor Abdulhamid Ahmed, expressed gratitude for the government’s support in executing the ministry’s mandate effectively.
He said the State Government led by Governor Radda remains strongly committed to address the needs of displaced persons and promote sustainable development in communities affected by insecurity.
