Government House, Katsina

Press Release

Gov Radda is Creating New Opportunities for SMEs - KASEDA DG

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has unveiled a roadmap for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) development in the State. Governor Radda who noted that the sector remains the cornerstone of the state's economic transformation agenda.

Delivering his remarks at the Katsina MSMEs Stakeholders Dialogue at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Governor Radda asserted, "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."

Speaking on the challenges facing MSMEs development in Katsina, Governor Radda explained that his administration had conducted a thorough assessment of the MSME landscape upon assumption of office. "We have identified critical challenges that had historically impeded MSMEs growth. These ranged from limited access to affordable financing and business development services to infrastructural deficits and regulatory hurdles," he stressed. 

"The absence of reliable data and insufficient institutional support had created a fragmented ecosystem that failed to meet the needs of aspiring entrepreneurs," Governor continued. 

In response to these challenges, the Governor noted that the administration has implemented a comprehensive transformation strategy that has already yielded significant results. 

"A cornerstone of this initiative has been the establishment of the Katsina Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), under the capable leadership of Director-General Aisha Aminu Malumfashi, KASEDA serves as the central coordinating body for all MSME development activities in the state," the Governor emphasized. 

Other dedicated efforts to address these challenges are; expansion of access to finance through strategic partnerships which includes the unprecedented securing of a ₦5 Billion Matching Fund with the Bank of Industry (BOI) - a historic first in the state's eight-year relationship with BOI. Additionally, a ₦1 Billion Matching Fund partnership with SMEDAN and Sterling Bank, alongside a ₦542 Million UNDP collaboration focused on conflict-affected areas. 

In the same vein, the Governor pointed out reinvigoration of the MSME Council and the implementation of comprehensive operational frameworks for KASEDA. Remodeling of the Katsina Industrial Development Centre and the establishment of specialized Common Facility Centers supporting fashion, printing, food processing, and ICT sectors, as measures to advance MSMEs development. 

"Our administration's commitment to MSME development goes beyond rhetoric," stated Governor Radda.

 "We are creating tangible solutions to long-standing challenges, establishing sustainable structures, and building an ecosystem that will drive economic growth for generations to come."

Building on these foundational achievements, Governor Radda unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the future of MSME development in Katsina State. 

This includes expansion of the successful Dikko BDS Corp, which will extend its reach to provide comprehensive technical support across all communities in Katsina State. 

"This expansion will be guided by KASEDA's meticulously developed 5-Year Strategic Plan, ensuring sustainable and measurable growth across the MSME sector," declared Governor Radda. 

"We'll equally transform Katsina Youth Craft Village and position it as a premier centre for skills development and youth empowerment," he said. Leveraging technology and innovation, the state will utilize its newly developed Cluster Mapping and Database Portal to facilitate broader market access for local businesses. 

The Governor also announced that this MSME Sector Roundtable marks the beginning of a series of sector-specific stakeholder engagements. These forums will serve as platforms for continuous dialogue, progress assessment, and collaborative problem-solving across various economic sectors.

Speaking at the MSME Roundtable Meeting, Hajia Aisha Aminu Malumfashi, Director General of Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA), emphasized the pivotal role of Governor Radda's leadership in transforming the state's MSME landscape. She highlighted how his hands-on approach and strategic vision have catalyzed unprecedented growth in the sector, creating new opportunities for small businesses across the state.

The Director General acknowledged the crucial support of development partners, commercial banks, and members of the diplomatic corps in advancing the state's MSME agenda. Their presence at the roundtable, she noted, demonstrates a shared commitment to unlocking Katsina State's economic potential through collaborative partnerships and sustained engagement.

Outlining the objectives of the roundtable, Malumfashi emphasized its threefold purpose: to showcase the state's achievements in building a robust MSME ecosystem, to secure stakeholder buy-in for ongoing initiatives, and to foster meaningful dialogue that will drive new partnerships. 

"This roundtable represents more than just a meeting," she stated. 

"It is a platform for creating lasting synergies that will accelerate economic prosperity and inclusive growth across Katsina State."

The Stakeholders Roundtable Meeting drew insights and perspectives from development partners, commercial banks, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

24th October, 2024