Following Zagazola Report, Katsina Govt Clarifies Position, Pledges School Rehabilitation and Infrastructure Renewal
The Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to rehabilitating public schools and restoring critical infrastructure in communities affected by insecurity, following a report by Zagazola Makama which highlighted how the absence of governance, particularly the collapse of public infrastructure, is undermining military efforts against terrorists in parts of the state.
The earlier report had drawn attention to the deplorable condition of public institutions in several frontline communities, warning that the lack of functioning schools and other government services was hampering stabilisation efforts and making it difficult for security gains recorded by troops to translate into lasting peace.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Yusuf Suleiman Jibia, the state government acknowledged public concern over the condition of one of the affected schools and clarified that the facility had already been earmarked for immediate rehabilitation under the government’s ongoing education infrastructure intervention programme.
According to the government, the school had been identified for renovation long before the recent public attention, but the project was delayed due to severe security challenges that displaced residents and significantly reduced school enrolment.
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The statement explained that the government had initially prioritised the restoration of peace and the protection of lives and property, noting that the improved security situation now provides an opportunity to commence the rehabilitation of critical public infrastructure.
It stated that as communities gradually return to normal, displaced families are resettling, pupils are returning to classrooms, and the government is moving into the next phase of rebuilding essential public facilities to consolidate security gains.
The planned intervention, according to the statement, will include the renovation of classrooms, replacement of damaged roofs, rehabilitation of floors, provision of furniture, improved sanitation facilities, and other works aimed at creating a safe and conducive learning environment.
The administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda also reiterated its commitment to sustained investment in education through improved infrastructure, teacher development and enhanced learning facilities across the state.
The government further appealed to communities, parents and other stakeholders to support the protection and maintenance of public facilities, stressing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility.
The clarification comes amid growing discussions on the importance of complementing military operations with effective governance and the restoration of basic public services in conflict-affected communities to prevent terrorists from exploiting governance gaps.