One of the best places to be in the Northern part of Nigeria is Katsina State. Located in the Northwestern geo-political zone of Nigeria. It is the fifth most populated state in Nigeria with a total of 5,801, 584 (according to the 2006 census). You’ll definitely feel t home in the state with a slogan ‘Home of Hospitality’. Katsina state also has Katsina as its capital city. There are 34 Local Governments Areas of the state among the list are; Baure, Bakori, Batagarawa, Bindawa, Daura, Katsina, Mai’Adua, Kafur, Rimi, Sabuwa and so on. Katsina State is home to Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-president Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
TRANSPORTATION
You will get to Katsina State through the air route by its airport, Katsina Airport. It is located ar Airport Road, off Daura-Katsina Local Government Area. You will access the state through the major roads linking its neighboring states. Pack your luggage and be ready to stay longer in the ‘Home of Hospitality’.
PLACES TO VISIT
The first place to visit should be the Emir of Katsina Palace called ‘Gidan Korau’. It is located at M. Dikko Road, by IBB Way Junction, Shaiskawa, Katsina. The Palace is a symbol of culture, history and traditions of the Katsina people. It is said to be built as far back as 1348 by Muhammadu Korau who is believed to be the first Muslim king of the state.
The Palace is encircled with a rampart called ‘Gamuvar Gidan Sarki’. The main gate which leads to the Palace is known as ‘Kofar Soro’ while the gate at the backyard is called ‘Kofar Bai’ which are both extinct. The Emir’s residential quarters which is the epicenter of the palace, is a large compound built in the typical Hausa traditional architecture.
Another notable traditional home is the Emir of Daura Palace. This is the palace of the head of the Daura Emirate, one of the seven true Hausa States. The colorfully decorated palace was constructed at the early 19th century. It was built with materials depicting Northern Nigeria’s architectural designs. As the birthplace of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, the palace has received an increased traffic with tourists and political favor-seekers parading its corridors.
Other notable places to visit are Karkanda Stadium, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina Township Stadium, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Airport and Federal University, Dutsin-Ma.
Make sure you bring along your scarf to cover your hair as a female to follow the local customs when going out. Bring your camera to capture the sights, sun shades and hats to prevent the scorching sun of the state.
