Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), saying the establishment of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA) demonstrates the government’s determination to create a conducive environment for business growth and investment.
The governor made the remarks during the celebration of the 2026 International MSMEs Day, held at the Continental Event Sport Centre in Katsina. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Abdullahi Garba Faskari.
Governor Radda said KASEDA has introduced several initiatives to support entrepreneurs, including providing access to interest-free loans and connecting business owners with other financial support programmes aimed at expanding their enterprises.
He noted that MSMEs remain the backbone of economic development, as they create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth.
The governor also commended the leadership of KASEDA for launching the Digital Marketplace, describing it as a strategic initiative that will enable traders across the state to promote their products and expand their businesses through modern digital technology.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Alhaji Yusuf Jirdede, and the Deputy Executive Chairman of KASEDA, Alhaji Salisu Mamman Kadandani, assured stakeholders of the state’s continued support for the agency to strengthen the growth of MSMEs across Katsina State.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of KASEDA, Dr. Babangida Kabir Rumah, said the agency is focused on improving access to finance for entrepreneurs through partnerships with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and Sterling Bank, making loans and other financial assistance more accessible to business owners.
Dr. Rumah added that, beyond financial support, KASEDA has trained thousands of youths, women and entrepreneurs in business development, financial management, entrepreneurship and enterprise growth to promote self-reliance and economic empowerment.
He further explained that the agency is encouraging business registration while educating entrepreneurs on the use of digital technology, online marketing and e-commerce to help them reach wider markets.
The Director-General praised Governor Radda for placing enterprise development at the centre of his administration’s economic agenda, saying the government’s vision is to produce more entrepreneurs and employers of labour rather than job seekers.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi, and the Head of Corporate Communications at Stanbic Bank Nigeria, Hajiya Hauwa Bello, commended the Katsina State Government for creating a business-friendly environment and sustaining policies that support the growth of MSMEs across the state.
