75 Years Strong: Kanwan Katsina Hails FRCN’s Legacy, Urges Digital Leap and Power Stability

Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara ‘mni’

The Kanwan Katsina and District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara, mni, has congratulated the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) on its 75th anniversary, describing the milestone as a powerful symbol of resilience, credibility, and excellence in Nigeria’s public broadcasting landscape.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide and Sarkin Labarun Kanwan Katsina, Jamilu Hashimu Gora, and made available to journalists in Katsina, the monarch lauded FRCN’s enduring impact while reflecting on his personal journey with the corporation.
During an exclusive interview with FRCN, Kankara recounted his early days as a young broadcaster at FRCN Kaduna in 1976, where he worked as a roving correspondent shortly after completing his secondary education. He later proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
He fondly recalled working under his then News Manager, Mr. Abdulaziz Oladimeji, noting that the experience laid a strong foundation for his career, particularly during his later role as Public Relations Officer in the Nigeria Customs Service.
Commending the management and staff of FRCN, the traditional ruler praised the organisation’s consistency in educating, informing, and entertaining Nigerians over the decades, describing it as a trusted voice for millions.

Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara ‘mni’
Kankara also reflected on the challenges of the analogue broadcasting era, highlighting the rigours of news gathering and transmission in the past, while acknowledging the remarkable improvements brought by modern digital technology.
He applauded the establishment of FRCN’s New Media Directorate, noting that it would significantly expand public access to government policies and programmes. However, he raised concerns over persistent power supply issues affecting FRCN Kaduna, which he said sometimes forces the station off air for extended periods.
Describing the situation as unfortunate for such a critical national broadcaster, he urged the management to explore alternative energy solutions, particularly solar power, to ensure uninterrupted transmission.
He emphasized that millions of people, especially in Northern Nigeria, rely heavily on FRCN for news, education, and entertainment, making consistent broadcasting essential.
The Kanwan Katsina also advised the Director of New Media, Henritta Ibrahim, to strengthen the station’s digital presence by regularly uploading key programmes and news content on social media platforms, ensuring wider accessibility for audiences who may miss live broadcasts.
Reaffirming his confidence in the corporation’s future, Kankara expressed optimism that FRCN would continue to evolve in line with global best practices while sustaining its legacy as one of Nigeria’s most trusted media institutions.

Describing the situation as unfortunate for such a critical national broadcaster, he urged the management to explore alternative energy solutions, particularly solar power, to ensure uninterrupted transmission.
He emphasized that millions of people, especially in Northern Nigeria, rely heavily on FRCN for news, education, and entertainment, making consistent broadcasting essential.
The Kanwan Katsina also advised the Director of New Media, Henritta Ibrahim, to strengthen the station’s digital presence by regularly uploading key programmes and news content on social media platforms, ensuring wider accessibility for audiences who may miss live broadcasts.
Reaffirming his confidence in the corporation’s future, Kankara expressed optimism that FRCN would continue to evolve in line with global best practices while sustaining its legacy as one of Nigeria’s most trusted media institutions.