The Katsina State Government has rewarded Malama Abdulkadir-Yanmama with ₦500,000 for her honesty in returning ₦748,320 mistakenly sent to her account. The funds were intended for the Federal Government’s Home Grown School Feeding Programme, designed to provide free meals to primary school pupils.

The reward was presented on Tuesday by Dr. Mudassir Nasir, Executive Director of the Katsina State Social Investment Programme Agency (KASIPA).

The Incident
Dr. Nasir recounted that Abdulkadir-Yanmama received an unexpected bank alert marked as payment for school feeding programme vendors. Despite not being registered under the programme, she promptly reported the transaction to the agency.

“We requested her bank statement, and the Auditor-General’s office verified her claims. Governor Dikko Radda, impressed by her honesty, directed that she be appreciated with ₦500,000, a commendation letter, and an offer to participate in the next school feeding programme,” Nasir said.

Praise for Honesty
Governor Radda lauded Abdulkadir-Yanmama’s integrity, urging others to emulate her example. Katsina’s Auditor-General, Alhaji Anas Tukur-Abdulƙadir, also praised her, describing her act as deserving of even greater recognition.

Response from Abdulkadir-Yanmama
Expressing her gratitude, Abdulkadir-Yanmama explained her decision: “I knew that I had to return the money because it doesn’t belong to me.” She also thanked the governor and KASIPA management for their support and encouragement.

Public Reaction
The incident highlights the importance of integrity and honesty in society. Governor Radda’s gesture reflects a commitment to promoting such values, while Abdulkadir-Yanmama’s action has been widely commended as an example for all citizens.