Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has given an insight into how his administration has been transforming institutions and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state over the last two years.

Mr Radda, who spoke with journalists in Katsina, said his administration had established a N5.5 billion MSMEs fund through the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA).

The governor explained that the fund was dedicated to providing training and funding and creating a digital database for MSMEs and skills.

Mr Radda said, “I have been driving MSMEs for this country for the last six years. That has opened my eyes very well to the importance of MSMEs.”

Describing MSMEs as the engine of growth, the governor stated that they contribute over 49 per cent of the country’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The governor said the state was now lucky, as young people there have embraced MSMEs through innovation and technology.

Mr Radda continued, ”A lot of them came with talent in the information and communication technology (ICT), and about 80 per cent of them are mostly young women. With little support, little push, they can be big businesses.”

He also said his administration had upgraded the Katsina Youths Craft Village with a N5 billion investment, implementing a five-year strategic plan, and set up common facility centers.

Similarly, he said his administration was also focusing on institutional transformation through infrastructure development, renewable energy projects, and partnerships to boost the state’s economy and create jobs.

The governor said his administration is trying to transform and sanitise the system.

Mr Radda also said his administration, in partnership with the UNDP, supported some local governments with a grant of about N542 million to address the challenges faced by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).  

(NAN)