Full Speech by the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Faruq Lawal Jobe, Representing Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda at the Northwest PEBEC Conference in Katsina 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honor and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today on behalf of His Excellency, the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umar Radda PhD, CON, as we gather here for the Northwest edition of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) National Tour. I extend a warm welcome to all of you on behalf of the people of Katsina State, who are privileged to host this important conference.

The focus of PEBEC’s mission resonates with our aspirations here in Katsina: to dismantle bureaucratic obstacles and establish a more dynamic, supportive, and sustainable business environment across Nigeria. Our region is rich in diversity, with abundant resources spanning from agriculture to mineral wealth, from local trade to international commerce. We hold immense potential for growth and development.

However, unlocking this potential requires a unified approach—a robust framework that encourages investment and supports both large-scale businesses and the micro, small, and medium enterprises that serve as the backbone of our economy. Since assuming office, we have prioritized economic reforms aimed at fostering an investment-friendly environment in Katsina State. I am pleased to share that we have established the Katsina State Economic Council, a dedicated body working with stakeholders across various sectors and communities to chart a clear economic roadmap for our state.

As Chairman of this council, I am committed, along with the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency, to harmonizing efforts to attract investment, encourage innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth. Furthermore, we have launched the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communication Technology, a strategic body tasked with advancing digital transformation. Through this initiative, we are empowering our youth with vital digital skills, enhancing governance, and positioning Katsina as a center for technology-driven knowledge and innovation.

In addition, our Youth Collaborate initiative offers training and mentorship programs that foster self-development, turning creativity and ingenuity into economic opportunities. We believe that empowering our youth is fundamental to our state's prosperity, and we are committed to ensuring they become active contributors to our economy.

Our vision for Katsina extends beyond welcoming investors; it involves building a thriving ecosystem where local and foreign businesses, particularly SMEs, can flourish. We aim to create jobs, drive prosperity, and foster long-term economic growth. Over the next few days, this conference will provide invaluable opportunities for collaboration, sharing best practices, and refining our strategies to ease business processes and encourage investment.

We remain deeply grateful to the Federal Government and the PEBEC, led by His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, for their unwavering dedication to transforming Nigeria’s business landscape. PEBEC’s reforms have been instrumental in fostering a conducive business environment across states, and we are honored that this tour has come to Katsina, affirming our shared commitment to progress.

To our private sector partners, national organizations, civil society, and other stakeholders, I thank you for your partnership, insights, and contributions. Your investments and advice play a critical role in shaping our policies, promoting long-term economic stability, and enhancing Katsina’s appeal as a welcoming destination for business.

I would like to recognize the efforts of the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency, PEBEC, and all government agencies and individuals who contributed to the success of this event. Your dedication brings our collective vision to life, and we are grateful for your unwavering support in driving positive change in Katsina.

As we move forward, let us remain united in our mission to build a prosperous Northwest. This vision is more than just a policy; it is our commitment to building a brighter future for every citizen, every community, and every business in our region. I am confident that through our combined determination, we will transform this vision into reality.

Thank you once again for your presence, and I look forward to our continued collaboration and empowering partnerships in the days ahead.