Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Public Administration by Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU) during its 14th convocation ceremony, where he also announced significant incentives for graduating students and staff.
The conferral was announced in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, on Saturday. Addressing the graduates, Governor Radda described the honorary degree as a call to deeper public service and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state-owned university, which he praised as a centre of learning and community development. He urged the 2,682 graduands, including 31 First Class recipients, to become ambassadors of integrity and innovation.
In a series of directives, Governor Radda announced that the overall best graduating student will receive automatic employment upon completion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, with the Head of Service tasked with processing the appointment. Additionally, he approved a ₦100,000 cash award for the best students in each department, while the overall best graduand will receive a brand-new vehicle.
The Governor also approved a salary increment for both academic and non-academic staff of UMYU, calling it a gesture of appreciation for their dedication. He revealed that funds have been released for the accreditation of programmes to meet national and international standards, underscoring a pledge to support the university’s pursuit of excellence.
University leadership echoed the significance of the occasion. Chancellor Sen. Ibrahim M. Ida highlighted the convocation as a celebration of student perseverance and familial support, noting the institution’s expansion in academic programmes and community outreach. Pro-Chancellor Senator Hadi Abubakar Sirika thanked Governor Radda for his leadership and committed the Governing Council to advancing research and global competitiveness.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shehu Salihu Muhammad detailed UMYU’s growth from about 1,000 to over 20,000 students, now offering 117 accredited undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. He commended the state government for prompt salary payments and consistent support. Ambassador Ahmed Rufa’i, speaking for other honorary awardees, urged graduates to serve society with honesty.
The ceremony was attended by top state officials, including Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal, state assembly speaker Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, traditional rulers, and service chiefs.
The event underscored a strengthened partnership between the Katsina State Government and UMYU, focusing on rewarding academic excellence, improving staff welfare, and enhancing the university’s infrastructural and academic standing.
