The Katsina State Government has announced recruitment of a second batch for its Community Watch Corps with a N1.5 billion allocation.
Aside recruitment and training, part of the funds will be used to equip the new intake with the necessary tools and equipment to carry out their duties effectively.
Dr. Nasir Mu’azu , Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs made the disclosure to the newsmen at a press briefing on Thursday.
A statement signed by Governor Dikko Radda’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed said the decision was reached at the 9th regular council meeting chaired by the Governor.
Mohammed, quoting the Commissioner, said, “The council unanimously approved the recruitment of a second batch of the community watch corps to complement the existing batch that covers eight local government areas.”
The decision,he said, was informed by the success of the first batch in reducing insecurity levels by over 30% in the banditry prone areas.
Danmusa, disclosed that the second batch will focus on 10 local governments, including Dutsinma, Kurfi, Charanchi, Musawa, Matazu, Malumfashi, Danja, Kafur, Bakori, and Funtua.
**N12.5 Billion for Medical Imaging Equipment**
Also at the 9th meeting, the council approved
N12,537,388,500 for the supply and installation of state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment at the Imaging Centre of General Amadi Rimi Specialist Hospital. The investment will equip the centre with 10 different cutting-edge diagnostic tools, comprising of an MRI 3.0, CT scan, mammogram, and nuclear imaging machines.
Ahmed Tijani, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Health, who represented the state’s health commissioner, Musa Adamu Funtua, explained the significance of this investment. He stated that the equipment will be among the first of its kind in West Africa, offering world-class diagnostic services to residents of Katsina State and beyond.
The MRI 3.0 is considered one of the most advanced imaging technologies available globally. These advanced tools will enable doctors to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions more effectively.
The equipment will not only improve diagnostic capabilities in the state but also contribute to the overall development of healthcare infrastructure in line with Governor Radda’s “building your future” agenda. The Imaging Centre is currently under construction and is expected to be fully operational upon completion.