We’re ready to support reintegration of repentant bandits — Katsina Gov

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has assured bandits willing to renounce violence that the government is prepared to support their reintegration into society if they genuinely embrace peace.

Radda made the appeal on Thursday during the inauguration of 152 housing units constructed for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia Local Government Area of the state.

He urged those involved in banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes to lay down their arms and return to their communities, saying the government remains open to dialogue, repentance and rehabilitation.

According to the governor, individuals who abandon criminal activities and choose peace would have access to opportunities aimed at rebuilding their lives through lawful means.

Radda said the housing project, launched in October 2024, was implemented through a partnership between the Katsina State Government and development partners to support families displaced by insecurity.

The governor said the intervention also included the construction of a Climate Peace Entrepreneurship Centre, solar mini-grid electrification, a veterinary clinic, market stalls, VIP toilets at the cattle market, rehabilitation of the cattle loading ramp, and the provision of potable water and street lights.

He noted that security in Jibia had improved in recent years, allowing farmers to return to their fields and helping to boost agricultural production and economic activities.

Radda also acknowledged the support of development partners, including the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, the German Government through GIZ and the Norwegian Government, stressing that sustained collaboration remains essential to tackling insecurity, displacement and poverty in the state.