Dikko Umar Radda (Gov.)

About Dikko Umar Radda (Gov.)

Dikko Umar Radda is a Nigerian economist, politician, and public administrator who has served as the Governor of Katsina State since May 29, 2023. Before becoming governor, he was the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), where he focused on supporting small and medium-sized businesses across the country.

He was born on September 10, 1969, in Hayin Gada, Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria. Radda began his education at Radda Primary School before attending Zaria Teachers College and Kafanchan College of Education, where he earned a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE). He later obtained a Bachelor of Technology in Agricultural Economics and Extension from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, followed by postgraduate studies at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Radda started his career as a teacher before moving into banking and later public service. His political journey gained momentum when he became Chairman of Charanchi Local Government Area between 2003 and 2008. He later served as the National Welfare Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was appointed Chief of Staff to the former Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari. In 2016, he became the Director-General of SMEDAN, where he implemented initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic development.

In 2023, Radda contested the Katsina State governorship election under the APC and emerged victorious. Since assuming office as governor, his administration has focused on improving security, agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment in Katsina State.

Beyond politics, Radda established the Gwagware Foundation, a charitable organization that supports rural communities through educational assistance, healthcare services, youth empowerment programs, and humanitarian relief for vulnerable families.

Dikko Umar Radda is widely recognized for his background in agricultural economics, public administration, and economic development, making him one of the prominent political leaders in northern Nigeria.