Katsina elevates district, village heads

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, on Tuesday approved the elevation of District Heads to Grade Level 16 and Village Heads to Grade Level 10 across the state, in a move aimed at strengthening traditional institutions and improving their welfare.

The announcement was made at the Government House, Katsina, during the formal flag-off of the implementation of a new grading structure under the Emirate Law passed by the State House of Assembly in August 2025.

District and village heads at the formal flag-off of the implementation of a new grading structure under the Emirate Law at the government house in Katsina….Photo credit: Govt House

Radda said the reform marks a key step in repositioning traditional leadership for better service delivery and grassroots governance.

He commended stakeholders involved in the process, noting that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional rulers.

“I thank the Local Government Service Commission and all stakeholders for their commitment in making this initiative a reality. We are optimistic that, in no distant time, the full benefits of this reform will be realised,” the governor said.

He also praised traditional rulers for their cooperation, linking the state’s security progress to joint efforts between communities, government, and security agencies.

“Everyone can attest that insecurity has reduced drastically. This is a result of our collective commitment to restoring peace,” he added.

Earlier, the Special Adviser on Emirate Affairs, Usman Abba, said the reform was part of broader efforts to improve the welfare and effectiveness of traditional institutions, noting that about 8,000 ward heads are already benefiting from enhanced allowances.

The Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Usman Mamman, said due processes had been completed to implement the new grading system, describing it as a milestone in strengthening grassroots governance.