On World Population Day, Radda Vows to Use Data to Guide Growth Initiatives in Katsina

Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has reiterated his administration's dedication to development guided by data, emphasizing that precise population statistics are crucial for planning and enhancing the provision of essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment across the state.

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This stance was conveyed through a statement issued by Ibrahim Mohammad, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, which was made available to the press on Saturday in commemoration of the 2026 World Population Day.

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According to the statement, Governor Radda views population growth as a dual-edged phenomenon that presents both challenges and opportunities, necessitating careful planning and strategic investment.

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The governor's administration is resolute in its efforts to transform the state's burgeoning youthful population into a productive workforce through the implementation of targeted policies and investments.

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Governor Radda underscored the importance of planning with accurate numbers, stressing that every individual, from newborns to young people entering the job market, and every family seeking healthcare, must be accounted for in the state's budget and programs.

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The governor noted that relying on estimates in development planning is no longer tenable, and as such, the government will bolster data collection systems, expand access to family planning services, invest in skills acquisition programs, and foster an environment conducive to the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, thereby generating employment opportunities for young people.

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Governor Radda has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to align their 2026 work plans with current population data to ensure the effective delivery of services.

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The governor has also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and the media to support government efforts in sensitizing communities to the importance of responsible family size and birth registration.

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Governor Radda extended congratulations to Professor Sadiq Isa Radda, Katsina State's representative at the National Population Commission, on his recent inauguration, which was conducted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

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Governor Radda expressed confidence that Professor Radda, in his new role as NPC commissioner, would leverage his experience to ensure Katsina State receives effective representation and contributes to the generation of credible population data for national planning purposes.