By Katsina Times

The Katsina State Government has intensified efforts to secure the final licensing of Amana Microfinance Bank, as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Banking and Finance, Hajiya Bilkisu Sulaiman Ibrahim, paid a visit to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Kano branch for high-level discussions.

The visit is part of the state’s strategy to expand financial inclusion and widen access to credit facilities for residents. According to officials, the microfinance bank is expected to play a vital role in Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda’s drive to strengthen grassroots financial services and support entrepreneurship.

Speaking during the meeting, Hajiya Bilkisu stressed that the establishment of Amana Microfinance Bank would serve as a key tool in the administration’s fight against poverty while linking rural communities to formal banking systems.

“This represents a critical pillar in Governor Radda’s agenda to strengthen grassroots financial services and create inclusive opportunities for entrepreneurship,” she said.

The proposed bank is projected to boost support for small businesses, with a special focus on empowering women and youth across the 34 local government areas of the state.

The CBN Kano Branch Controller, Hajiya Saudatu Mohammed, received the delegation and assured that the apex bank is committed to fast-tracking the licensing process, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

The move aligns with Governor Radda’s broader economic transformation agenda, which aims to position Katsina as a growing financial hub in Northwest Nigeria.