Why Northern Governors Attended US Symposium On Peace – Radda

• Governor Radda underscores the significance of global exchanges, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences and ideas worldwide
• He expresses gratitude for the symposium invitation and advocates for continued collaboration between US officials and Nigerian governors

Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Chairman of the North West Governors Forum and Governor of Katsina State, addressed concerns surrounding Nigerian Governors’ participation in a two-day symposium organized by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP).

USIP invited 10 governors from the Northwest and Northcentral regions of Nigeria to the symposium on Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria, which was held between April 23 and April 25, 2024, in the United States.

In a statement issued by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Governor Radda they addressed the questions and comments about their presence at the symposium, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences and ideas globally in today’s interconnected world.

Governor Radda highlighted, “The exchange of ideas is very important in the global space that we have today, as the world is now a global village.”

During his vote of thanks on behalf of the governors at the symposium, Governor Radda expressed gratitude for the invitation. He emphasized the value of open communication and collaboration between US officials and Nigerian governors.

He stated, “We are very glad on the invitation and the engagement. It is also our pleasure to have this kind of engagement regularly. I hope this should not be the last but the beginning of our collaboration and partnership.”

Furthermore, Governor Radda appreciated the US for recognizing the need to engage with sub-national governments in Nigeria and pledged support to Katsina and other states.

“We are happy and glad that you have recognized the need to engage sub-nationals at the implementation stage of all the policies and programmes of the United States, and we are willing to give our support, and we are willing to partner with you,” he affirmed.

Following the security dialogue, the northern governors, led by Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State, paid a courtesy visit to the US State Department, where they met with Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour, and Under Secretary of State, Jose W. Fernandez.