In a grand display of royal tradition and cultural heritage, Katsina State was agog with pomp and pageantry as the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abdul-Mumini Kabir Usman, conferred traditional titles on three distinguished sons of the land.
The historic city, known for its deep-rooted Islamic and Hausa-Fulani traditions, played host to dignitaries from all corners of Nigeria, drawn to witness the prestigious event at the emir’s palace.
The emir honoured these illustrious individuals for their exceptional contributions to the development of Katsina Emirate and the state as a whole.
Among the honourees were the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Faruk Lawal Jobe, who was conferred with the title of Sarkin Fulanin Joben Katsina; Hon. Jabiru Salisu Tsauri, Chief of Staff to Governor Dikko Radda, bestowed with the title of Lamidon Katsina, and Honourable Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmad, Chairman of the House Committee on Interior in the House of Representatives, who received the title of Dujiman Katsina.
The turbaning ceremony, steeped in royal tradition, drew high-profile dignitaries, including former Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, and Zamfara State Deputy Governor and business mogul, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal.
Also in attendance were representatives from various emirates, including Daura, Kano and Zazzau, amongst many others.
Other key political figures from the National Assembly and Katsina State House of Assembly were also present, underscoring the significance of the event.
The Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudden Abbas, was represented by Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa.
“On behalf of the Rt. Hon. Speaker, I convey greetings from the entire members of the House. We congratulate the celebrants and hail the emir of Katsina for giving them the opportunity to serve their people,” he said.
During the ceremony, the emir reflected on the growing divisions within the Muslim community, particularly the rift caused by various Islamic sects, saying there must be unity between and among Muslims as well as other faiths.
He expressed concern over the impact of backbiting and jealousy in fostering discord within society. He urged Muslims to come together in unity, particularly in supporting the less fortunate members of the community.
As part of his commitment to promoting societal harmony, the emir announced the formation of new committees for Zakat collection and distribution as well as security, initiatives aimed at purifying the society and averting future calamities.
On his part, the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, expressed appreciation for the honour bestowed upon his close associates.
Governor Radda, who attended the ceremony in royal regalia, lauded the newly turbaned titleholders for their dedication to the state.
“These honours reflect not only the personal achievements of the recipients but also their unwavering commitment to the progress of Katsina State. I have no doubt that in their new roles, they will continue to foster peace, unity and development within our state,” he said.
In his remarks on behalf of the recipients, the Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal, thanked Allah (SWT) for making it possible for them to witness the memorable day and how the ceremonies went peacefully.
“Our profound appreciation goes to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Dr Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, for finding us worthy of this honour and I want to assure his royal highness that this will spur us more towards rendering our services to the people.
“We would like to express our deep appreciation to His Excellency, the governor, for his immeasurable support and encouragement throughout this period,” he said.
Malam Farouk Lawal, Sarkin Fulanin Joben Katsina
Malam Faruk Lawal, the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, was born in 1965 in Kankara Local Government. His father, Alhaji Lawal, is a grandchild of Abubakar Jobe, the 13th ruler of the Jobawa Family.
Faruk’s early education began with Quranic studies, followed by enrolment at Kankara Primary School, Teachers’ College in Dutsin-Ma, and later Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned a Bachelor of Education degree in Social Studies.
Faruk’s impressive educational background