2,000 KIOSKS, SOLAR LIGHTS: KATSINA BACKS EDUCATION, ECONOMY

The Katsina State Government has approved a series of development projects aimed at improving education, strengthening small businesses and advancing climate governance across the state.

The approvals were announced during the 9th Regular Meeting of the State Executive Council for 2026 held in Katsina and presided over by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

Briefing journalists, Commissioner for Information Dr. Bala Salisu Zango said the decisions reflect the administration’s focus on people-centred development and economic inclusion.

One of the key approvals is the procurement and installation of 30 solar-powered lights in Tsangaya schools across each of the state’s 361 wards.

According to the Special Adviser on Power and Energy, Dr. Hafiz Ahmed, the initiative is designed to improve learning conditions in Tsangaya (Almajiri) schools, particularly during evening hours, while also enhancing safety and access to education.

The State Executive Council also approved a contract for the fabrication and installation of 2,000 standardized modular kiosks under the Katsina Road Corridor Enterprise Infrastructure Programme across 34 local government areas.

The kiosks are expected to replace makeshift roadside structures, providing safer and more organised trading spaces for nano and micro businesses, while improving urban aesthetics and supporting local commerce.

In addition, the Council approved the adoption of Climate Change Budget Tagging across all ministries, departments, agencies and local government councils.

Officials said the policy will ensure that climate-related spending is tracked more effectively, improving transparency, accountability and planning in environmental governance.

The government said the reforms align with its broader agenda to strengthen resilience, expand economic opportunities and improve public service delivery across the state.