From Abdullahi Shugaba, in Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has received a delegation of 17 foreign diplomats who arrived in the state to witness the 2026 Durbar Fiesta in Katsina and Daura Emirates respectively.
A press statement signed and issued to the Citizenship Media in Katsina by Malam Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary ((CPS), to Governor Malam Dikko Unaru Radda said the delegation was led by Belgium Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Pieter Leenknegt who were received by the governor alongside his deputy, Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe, at the Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Airport, Katsina on Sallah Day.
Members of the diplomatic Corps in the delegation include the Envoy of Egypt Mohamed Fouad, Ambassador Bengt van Loosdrecht of the Netherlands, Amb. Félix Costales Artieda of Spain, Amb. Michał Cygan of Poland, Amb. Patrick Felix Egloff of Switzerland, and Amb. Martin Podstavek of Slovakia.
Also in the delegation include, His .Excellency ((HE), Amb. Nicolás Perazzo Naón of Argentina, H.E. Amb. Pascaline Gerengbo Yakivu of Congo, Mr. Iacopo Foti of Italy (Chargé d’Affaires), Mrs. Farida Yusuf, wife of the Congo Brazzaville Chargé d’Affaires, and H.E. N. O. Jude of IPC-UN.
Others were, H.E. Umar Usman Machika, Ph.D, (Head of Mission ICPGG Ghana and host Coordinator), H.E. Madik, H.E. Dr. Hussani Haruna Coomassie, (Head of Mission IPC Nigeria) Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations, and Mr. Jay Kimmelman, CEO/Founder of NewGlobe Inclination, USA.
Governor Radda led the delegation from the airport where he received the Envoys to the palace of the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman the venue of the festival where they started watching the Durbar activities after the Emir’s returned from the Eid prayer ground.
The visit forms part of activities lined up for the 2026 Durbar Festival, which showcases the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the people of Katsina State.
The diplomats are expected to witness the grand finale of Durbar at the Old Government House, Katsina, tomorrow, where the historic Katsina Emirate Durbar will be held.
The ambassadors will also proceed to Daura Emirate to witness the renowned Daura Emirate Durbar, as part of efforts to deepen cultural exchange and international engagement.
Speaking on the significance of the visit, Governor Radda described the presence of the diplomats as a testament to the growing global interest in Katsina’s cultural heritage.
“We are honoured to receive this distinguished delegation of diplomats who have come to witness our unique cultural heritage”
“The Durbar is not only a celebration of our traditional heritage but also a symbol of unity, peace, and identity of our people’s culture and traditions” the governor said.
He noted that the visit would further strengthen diplomatic relations and promote Katsina State as a destination for cultural tourism and international partnerships.
Governor Radda also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the rich cultural values of the state while promoting peace and development.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari, and members of the State Executive Council also graced the occasion.
