Katsina Government Hosts Grand Sallah Festival to Empower Youth, Promote Culture
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina TIMES
The Katsina State Government has organised a major Sallah celebration titled “X-Games Keke Reloaded”, aimed at empowering youth, uniting communities, and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The event took place on Monday, June 9, 2025, under the coordination of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau. It was supervised by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, and the Bureau’s Director-General, Dr Kabir Ali Masanawa.
The festival combined modern and traditional sports, drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across the state. Highlights included a bicycle race and a three-wheeler (Keke NAPEP) competition, which started at the Play-Over bridge in Tashar Bala and ended at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium along Mani Road. The over-10-kilometre race was well-organised and closely monitored by security personnel, healthcare workers, and sports officials.
To ensure inclusivity, para-sports were also featured, including wheelchair races and para-handball competitions. Winners received various prizes, with the champion of the Keke NAPEP race receiving a brand-new tricycle, while the top bicycle race winner received ₦500,000. Runners-up in both categories also received cash prizes and certificates of recognition.
The festival also served as a showcase of Katsina’s traditional culture. Spectators were treated to Hawan Daba, a traditional horse parade symbolising the grandeur of the Katsina Emirate, as well as wrestling, animal shows featuring hyenas, monkeys, and snakes, fire performances, bicycle stunts, traditional dances, and folk music. All outstanding cultural performers were rewarded with generous prizes.
Prominent political figures, including Senator Muntari Dandutse, Member of the House of Representatives Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri, and Shehu Dalhatu Tafki, contributed to the success of the event by donating two tricycles and providing financial support.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda (PhD) reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth development and cultural revival. He emphasised that sports and culture are vital tools for unifying communities and enlightening young people on the importance of preserving their heritage.
In a related development, the state government has inaugurated a committee of historians led by the Wazirin Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, to identify and revitalise historical sites, boost tourism, and raise public awareness of Katsina’s historical legacy.
With initiatives like X-Games Keke Reloaded, Katsina State continues to set an example in blending sports and culture as a means of fostering development, unity, and state pride.
