Radda inaugurates peace building, skills training, climate resilience hub in Jibia
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru, on Thursday inaugurated the Climate Peace Hub in Jibia, a centre dedicated to providing transformative intervention that will strengthen peace building, climate resilience, economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in vulnerable communities.
The Climate Peace Hub was established through a partnership between the Katsina State Government, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Norway.
The inauguration was witnessed by Norwegian and German ambassadors in Nigeria, development partners, members of the State Executive Council, legislators, traditional leaders and other stakeholders.
Speaking during the inauguration, Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building resilient communities through practical investments that directly improve the lives of citizens.
“This facility represents the future of community development. It brings together peace building, climate adaptation, technology, agriculture and skills acquisition under one roof.
“Our administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower our people, create opportunities for women and youths, and strengthen peaceful coexistence among communities,” he said.
The governor said that the hub aligns perfectly with his administration’s vision of promoting inclusive development and sustainable economic growth, particularly in communities affected by climate challenges and insecurity.
“The Climate Peace Hub is more than a physical structure; it is a symbol of hope and a platform for innovation. Through facilities such as the automatic weather station, smart agriculture demonstration farms, conflict resolution centre, ICT laboratories and vocational training centres, our people will gain the knowledge and tools needed to improve their livelihoods and build a more prosperous future,” he added.
He commended the UNDP and the Government of Norway for their continued support to Katsina State, stressing that strategic partnerships remain critical to addressing complex development challenges.
During the event, Radda met Hafsat Rabi’u, a young woman living with disability from Jibia who acquired vocational skills through the Climate Peace Hub.
Impressed by her determination, talent and commitment, the governor immediately directed that she be considered for employment in the Katsina State Civil Service.
Earlier, while conducting the Governor and dignitaries around the facility, the Climate Peace Hub Manager, Mohammed Aliyu, explained that the facility was conceived as an integrated platform to address climate change, conflict prevention and community resilience.
Aliyu explained key components of the project, including Nigeria’s first climate-focused automatic weather station designed to provide farmers and herders with timely weather information, a conflict resolution centre for peaceful settlement of disputes, smart agriculture demonstration farms, aquaponics facilities, livestock watering points, renewable energy solutions and a modern ICT centre.
He added that the hub conducts several vocational training programmes, including tailoring, salon services, plastic recycling, sustainable charcoal production and other skills aimed at empowering women, youths and internally displaced persons.
According to him, beneficiaries of the agricultural component of the project have already begun generating substantial daily income from cultivation activities, while more than 100 women have received training in various vocational skills.
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