Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed immense pride and congratulated Senator Abu Ibrahim and the family of late Major-General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua following their prestigious national honours conferred by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in recognition of their exceptional service to Nigeria.
At the joint session of the National Assembly in commemorating Democracy Day, Senator Abu Ibrahim, the respected leader from Katsina South Senatorial District, was awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), one of Nigeria’s highest national honours.
Senator Ibrahim, who has served multiple terms in the Nigerian Senate since his first election in 1992, returned to represent his constituents in 2003, 2011, and 2015. Throughout his legislative career, he has distinguished himself as a champion of democratic values, effective representation, and service to both Katsina State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Governor Radda stated, “This honour is exceptionally well deserved. Senator Abu Ibrahim has dedicated his entire political career to serving our people with pure honesty, remarkable strength, and exemplary leadership. He has mentored countless young leaders and consistently stood by what is right, even when it was difficult.”
The Governor particularly commended Senator Ibrahim’s quiet but highly impactful role in fostering unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of political leaders across Katsina State.
In an equally significant moment, President Tinubu conferred posthumous award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR)—Nigeria’s highest national honour—to the late Major-General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.
This prestigious award places the late General among an exclusive group of non-presidents to receive this honour, joining the ranks of the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Governor Radda noted that late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua gave his life fighting for democracy, justice, and the unity of Nigeria.
“The General also stood courageously for freedom and his inspiring story continues to motivate us all. This honour holds profound meaning for us in Katsina State—it serves as a permanent reminder of his extraordinary sacrifices and the democratic path he helped forge for our nation,” the Governor added.
General Yar’Adua, who served as Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, later became a powerful voice for democratic governance and paid the ultimate price for his convictions during Nigeria’s military era.
More importantly, Governor Radda extend appreciation to President Tinubu for inclusion of Katsina-born heroes in the list of the national honours awardees in the year 2025.
The Governor encouraged all citizens of Katsina State, particularly the youth, to draw inspiration from these exemplary leaders.
The Governor also called upon traditional rulers, religious leaders, educators, and civil servants across the state to actively carry forward the enduring legacy of service, justice, and nation-building exemplified by both honourees.
