KATSINA Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State characterized the 2025 Hawan Bariki as an historically significant traditional ceremony, noting that this event marked the inaugural occasion when the state welcomed ten international ambassadors along with their families for the cultural festivities.
During his address to the dignitaries at the event on Monday, Radda stated, "We are immensely proud to host, for the very first time, ten ambassadors from various nations alongside their spouses and children."
Your attendance honors this event, and we greatly value your backing. We anticipate future collaborations and alliances that will create chances for Katsina State.
The Governor highlighted that Katsina’s cultural festivals hold deeper significance beyond being simple festivities, referring to the Grand Durbar as "an impressive occasion that displays our extensive heritage of horsemanship and culture."
The renowned Sallah Durbar is more than just a celebration; it stands as an emblem of our profound cultural heritage, strength, and steadfast dedication to peace and unity.
"The spectacular showcase of equestrian skills, the vividness of our customary clothing, and the tunes of our folk music all embody the elegance of our identity and the joy we experience in maintaining our legacy," he said additionally.
In considering the historical importance of the state’s cultural practices, Governor Radda revealed that "Back in 1956, the renowned Durbar took place in Kaduna to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II, who at that time served as the colonial ruler of Nigeria."
At that point, the Katsina and Daura Emirates stood out significantly, greatly enriching the extensive history of Northern Nigeria. This heritage is highlighted through numerous pioneering achievements—including historical landmarks, educational establishments, and pivotal moments in governance—that have molded our area's character.
I invite our distinguished guests and investors to discover the vast array of opportunities available in Katsina State, ranging from agriculture and commerce to education and tourism.
Our rich soil offers extensive possibilities for agribusiness, and our marketplaces act as centers for commerce and cultural legacy. We welcome you to join forces with us in crafting a future marked by collective prosperity and environmentally conscious development.
Reaffirming his administration’s priorities, Governor Radda said his administration remain dedicated to fostering an environment of security, economic prosperity, and infrastructural development to ensure that Katsina State remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for all.
“We are investing in education to empower our youth, strengthening our healthcare system to ensure the well-being of our people, and enhancing security to protect lives and property. These are the pillars upon which our ambition for a prosperous Katsina is built”, he added.
The Governor who noted that, the ongoing reforms were aimed at boosting tourism, preserving heritage, and expanding opportunities in the creative economy, said “During your visit, we encourage you to explore freely, engage with our local communities, and experience the unique hospitality that defines our state”.
“I would like to express my profound appreciation to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Katsina, HRH Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman; the Commissioner of Police and other heads of security agencies for ensuring a peaceful and secure event”, he concluded.
On his part, the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir praised Governor Radda’s commitment to transforming the state’s infrastructure, citing the construction of the Kofar Kaura Roundabout, Katsina-Dutsinma Road, and the Kaita-Dankama Highway.
“You have shown us that leadership isn’t just about blueprints—it’s in the relieved sighs of commuters, the laughter of children biking safely, and the quiet pride of elders watching their heritage walk hand in hand with the future,” the Emir remarked.
On the presence of ten ambassadors from various countries, the Emir Abdulmumini stated, “We are honored to have ambassadors from different European countries witnessing our rich traditions in Katsina State. Their presence is a testament to the peaceful and respectful way we observe our customs.”
He also expressed gratitude to Governor Radda for his dedication to preserving and honoring Katsina’s sacred traditions.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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