The Governor of Katsina State, Radda Dikko has pledged to transform the state’s economy through the empowerment of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises sector of the economy.
This is just as he said the government is intensifying efforts to boost the development of skills, especially among the youthful population, create access to finance for Nano, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as well as provide infrastructure for the general growth of businesses in the state.
Speaking in Abuja at a stakeholders’ roundtable organised by the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA), the governor, explained that his administration is passionate about empowering businesses as a means of growing the economy of the state.
He described the event as not just a forum to present the state’s achievements, but to engage with valued stakeholders, showcase progress, gain their support and foster dialogue and partnerships.
Dikko said, “Our approach is based on creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, facilitating access to finance, fostering skills development, and providing the infrastructure needed to unlock the full potential of our people.
“This gathering represents an important milestone in our journey to transform the economic landscape of Katsina State through the empowerment and growth of Nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (nMSMEs).
“Katsina State’s vision for MSMEs development is rooted in the belief that a vibrant MSMEs sector is the key to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and long-term prosperity. We aim to build a dynamic ecosystem where businesses can thrive, innovate, and compete not only locally but globally.
“With this vision in mind, our efforts are centred around establishing an ecosystem where every small business has the opportunity to grow, every entrepreneur is empowered with the right tools, and where collaboration between the public and private sectors paves the way for sustainable development.
“This gathering represents a unique opportunity for us to collaborate on innovative solutions and initiatives that will shape the future of small businesses in Katsina. Together, we can chart a course towards a brighter, more prosperous future.”
Dikko explained further that the State government has launched a N5bn matching fund with the Bank of Industry (BOI), a significant milestone, “as this was the first time such a fund was secured despite a BOI presence in Katsina for 8 years.
“We partnered with SMEDAN and Sterling Bank for a ₦1bn Matching Fund, ensuring more financing options for small businesses.
“In collaboration with UNDP, we established a ₦542m Matching Fund to support SMEs in frontline local governments affected by conflict.”
He noted that “we re-inaugurated the MSME Council, making it a vibrant platform for shaping policies that directly impact MSMEs.
“Our administration has developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Human Resources Policies, Operational Manuals, Job Functions, and KPIs, providing a clear operational framework for KASEDA.”
In her welcome address, the Director General of the KASEDA, Hajia Aisha Aminu said the roundtable meeting for stakeholders was to showcase “our achievements, to share with you the progress we have made in building a robust and dynamic MSME ecosystem in Katsina State.
“This includes initiatives that have enhanced access to finance, skills development, and market opportunities for our small businesses.
“We believe that sustainable development requires collaboration. This event serves as a platform for us to secure your buy-in, as we believe that your involvement and support will amplify the impact of our ongoing efforts. We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey and to work with us as partners in progress.”
She said the meeting seeks to foster Dialogue and Build New Partnerships. “We aim to create an open space for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and exploration of new partnerships that can accelerate the growth and development of MSMEs in Katsina State.
“By bringing together leaders from various sectors, we hope to create synergies that will drive economic prosperity and inclusive growth” the DG stated.