Governor Radda Commits to Leveraging ICT and SDGs for Katsina’s Development

The Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to harnessing the power of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the state. This declaration was made following the successful hosting of the “Katsina Impact Convergence on ICT and SDGs” at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Center in Abuja.

Governor Radda emphasized the transformative potential of ICT in addressing Katsina’s development challenges. “We are at a critical juncture in our state’s history. By leveraging ICT and aligning our efforts with the SDGs, we can create unprecedented opportunities for our people and accelerate Katsina’s transition to a knowledge-based economy,” he stated.

Highlighting several ongoing initiatives, including the SMART Katsina project and investments in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), with a focus on AI and machine learning, Governor Radda noted that these projects are part of a broader strategy to use technology as a catalyst for sustainable development across various sectors. “Our goal is not just to adopt new technologies but to ensure that these advancements translate into tangible benefits for every citizen of Katsina State,” he added. “From improving education and healthcare to promoting gender equality and combating climate change, we are committed to utilizing ICT to bring about greater good for our people.”

In a significant update on the state’s educational progress, Mal. Mustapha Shehu, the Project Coordinator of the AGILE Project in Katsina State, presented the remarkable achievements made since the current administration took office in May 2023. He highlighted Governor Radda’s approach of “fast but justifiable actions” as key to the project’s success. Notably, from May 2023 to date, 303 Junior and Senior Secondary schools have been renovated through the AGILE project’s Large Grant and Governor Radda’s support, ensuring that no child sits on the floor in these schools.

Reacting to the policy presentation by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on SDGs, Hon. Maryam Sadangi, Governor Radda commended her efforts for putting up such a detailed presentation. He added that the whole idea aligned with the ‘Building Your Future Strategic Policy’ and that the government is ready to give the needed support to ensure the established goals peculiar to Katsina State see the light of day.

Bilkisu Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Development Management Board, elaborated on the Board’s crucial role in coordinating and managing all development partner projects and programs across the state. She stressed the importance of synergy and collaboration in seeking technical assistance, capacity, and interventions from development partners to bridge gaps in achieving the SDGs. Ibrahim also announced the implementation of a Development Management Portal, which will provide real-time information and dashboard tracking of development activities statewide. Additionally, she revealed plans for an upcoming Development Partner Forum, set to take place in the coming weeks, aimed at engaging all Development Partners operating within the State.

Naufal Ahmed, Director General of the Katsina State ICT Directorate, detailed the state’s progress in building necessary infrastructure and implementing capacity-building initiatives. He emphasized that these efforts are crucial in positioning Katsina as a hub for technological innovation in Nigeria.

The landmark event, which took place on June 29, 2024, brought together key stakeholders, including Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN; Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa; Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Hon. Muhammad Ali Pate; UNDP Resident Coordinator, M. Malick Fall; USAID Mission Director, Melissa Jones; Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Mohammed Fouad; Jaiz Bank Chairman, Umaru Mutallab among other development partners, and civil society organizations, to discuss innovative approaches to sustainable development through technology.

The Katsina Impact Convergence has set the stage for increased collaboration between the state government, development partners, and the private sector. Governor Radda called on all stakeholders to join hands in this transformative journey, stating, “Together, we can harness the power of ICT to create a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future for Katsina State.”

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