By IIbrahim Kaula Mohammed
On Monday, May 27th, 2025, the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina buzzed with an energy that transcended the usual fanfare of public events. As Nigeria celebrated National Children’s Day, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda turned what could have been a routine ceremony into a profound statement about hope, unity, and the state’s unwavering commitment to its youngest citizens.
The Guard of Honour was impressively commanded by a young student, Usman Abdullahi — a Primary 5 pupil of Police Children School, Katsina. Composed, confident, and clad in full police ceremonial uniform, he stood out from the moment the ceremony began. As Governor Dikko Umaru Radda ascended the ceremonial saluting dais, young Usman marched forward, saluted smartly, and introduced himself. In a clear voice and with protocol-perfect precision, he informed the Governor that approximately 100 schoolchildren were on parade, respectfully requesting permission to proceed with the inspection.
The Governor responded with a warm smile, stepping down from the dais to walk alongside the young commander as they reviewed the assembled pupils together. Usman poise, along with the impeccable coordination of his team — who marched with the discipline of cadets from military academies — left many spectators visibly impressed.
It was more than a ceremonial parade; it was a striking display of discipline, pride, and youthful purpose. As each school marched past the Governor, groups paused briefly to present him with gifts, medals, and flowers — heartfelt gestures of admiration for a leader they clearly respect. Particularly moving was the participation of children with physical challenges, who were warmly included in the procession — a powerful symbol of the administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity.
After inspecting the parade, Governor Radda took his place at the Saluting Dais, standing tall and attentive as each school marched past in proud succession. One after another, the children paraded with enthusiasm—saluting, waving, and presenting gifts—while His Excellency watched like a proud father, visibly moved by their discipline and energy. The scene transformed into more than just a display of marching bands; it became a celebration of youthful promise, community spirit, and the unspoken bond between a leader and the future he is helping to shape.
“A Broom, a Handshake, and the Power of Symbols” Midway through the parade, a shy but determined boy stepped forward and handed the Governor a small, carefully wrapped gift. Inside was a hand-painted broom—the emblem of the All Progressives Congress (APC)—crafted with vibrant party colors. The simplicity of the gesture carried weight. Here was a child, barely ten years old, mirroring the political symbolism adults often reduce to slogans. Governor Radda, visibly moved, bowed to eye level, thanked the boy warmly, and later displayed the broom prominently onstage. “This,” he said, “is a reminder that our children are watching. They understand the values we must uphold.”
The symbolism deepened when Malam Dogo, a boy with dwarfism, approached the Governor. Without hesitation, Radda bent slightly, shook his hand firmly, and exchanged a few words. The crowd erupted in applause—not for the act itself, but for what it represented: In Katsina, dignity knows no physical bounds.
Policy Meets Purpose: A Blueprint for the Future
Governor Radda speech avoided empty platitudes. Instead, he laid bare his administration’s concrete efforts to secure children’s futures:
* Education: Over 104,000 schoolgirls across 255 schools now receive conditional cash transfers and learning materials through the Girl Education Development Initiative.
* Health: A record 2.2 million children vaccinated against measles in 2024 alone, coupled with ₦200 million invested in UNICEF-backed nutrition programs to combat stunting.
* Opportunity: 2,000 students trained in vocational skills like bag-making, fostering self-reliance.
* Inclusion: Full funding of WAEC, NECO, and other exam fees for all public secondary students—removing financial barriers to academic success.
“These are not statistics,” Radda emphasized. “They are bridges to a future where every Katsina child thrives.”
“An Evening of Unscripted Humanity” As dusk fell, the Governor swapped formalities for authenticity at a Children’s Day reception for orphans and children with special needs. At Katsina’s GRA Children’s Park, he danced freely with kids, snapped selfies, and shared jokes—not as a politician, but as a father figure. One moment stood out: A boy from a special needs school presented him with a hand-drawn card. Radda studied it intently, then hugged the child, whispering, “This is my favorite gift today.”
“Our presence here isn’t ceremonial,” he told the crowd. “It’s a promise: No child will be left behind. We see you. We value you.”
“The Quiet Revolution in Governance” What unfolded that day was more than a celebration—it was a masterclass in emotionally intelligent leadership. By kneeling to greet a child, championing inclusive policies, and prioritizing joy over protocol, Governor Radda sent a clear message: The future isn’t built on grand projects alone, but on the dignity we afford every citizen, young or old.
Critics might dismiss such gestures as photo ops. But in a state where 48% of the population is under 15, these actions resonate deeply. Parents spoke of renewed hope; teachers noted increased enrollment; even opposition figures grudgingly acknowledged the day’s unifying effect.
As the sun set on Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, one image lingered: The Governor’s painted APC broom, now displayed in his office. It serves as a daily reminder—not of partisan pride, but of the generation that will one day sweep clean the challenges of tomorrow.
In Katsina, under Radda watch, that generation is being equipped not just with textbooks, but with trust. And that may be the most transformative policy of all.
