Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times. Tuesday, April 29, 2025 —
Katsina Sets Up New Finance Department to Strengthen Ties with Banks
Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
A landmark meeting held Tuesday at Alhujrat Hotel in Katsina brought together key players in the financial sector, marking a significant step towards enhancing coordination between commercial banks and the Katsina State Government.
The high-level session was chaired by Hajiya Bilkisu Suleman Ibrahim, Special Adviser to the Governor on Banking and Finance. She led discussions with top executives from commercial banks operating in the State, aiming to foster a more integrated and effective financial ecosystem.
In her keynote address, Hajiya Bilkisu introduced the newly created Department of Banking and Finance, describing it as a strategic arm of government mandated to oversee all banking affairs, investments, and transactions involving the State and financial institutions.
“Our aim is to promote financial stability, economic security, and inclusive growth across Katsina,” she said. “We recognise the central role banks play in our development efforts. This department will serve as a vital link to ensure smooth coordination and accountability between banks and government.”
She announced that going forward, all formal engagements between the State Government and commercial banks must go through the new Department to streamline operations and strengthen regulatory oversight.
Key focus areas outlined during the meeting include:
– Expanding financial literacy and inclusion in rural and underserved areas
– Supporting MSMEs through training, mentorship, and access to finance
– Enhancing risk management and compliance practices
– Promoting digital banking and financial innovation
She concluded with a message of unity: “His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umar Radda, remains committed to every effort that advances the progress of our State. Let us join hands to build a resilient financial system for the people of Katsina.”
Sani Magaji, Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Katsina State, described the initiative as a national first and a visionary move by the State Government.
“Katsina is leading by example,” he said. “No other State has established a department solely to manage its dealings with commercial banks. This gives us a platform to align our goals and drive real economic change.”
He commended the State’s leadership for recognising the value of the banking sector. “We play a crucial role in financing businesses and public programmes. This initiative gives us greater confidence that Katsina is on a path to economic transformation.”
Magaji pledged the banking community’s full support to the Government’s financial plans and expressed readiness to engage in community development projects.
The meeting set the stage for a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient financial environment in Katsina State. It also underscored the importance of structured collaboration in driving sustainable development and economic resilience.
