FIC Report (Katsina State) – Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has called on other states of the federation to emulate Katsina State’s MSME initiatives model, describing it as a success. He commended the BOI and SMEDAN for partnering with the state in its MSME development drive.
The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, has commissioned the remodeled Katsina Industrial Development Centre (IDC) Common Facility Centre and the flag-off of the first Katsina MSME Clinic and Fair in Katsina today.
The remodeled IDC, a Public-Private Partnership between the Katsina State Government and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), is equipped with modern tools and machinery to enhance productivity and product quality. The upgraded facilities include: Renovated workshops for a conducive working environment, State-of-the-art computer labs and a call center for digital skills training and customer support and an Uninterrupted power supply through a 30KVA hybrid inverter system. Others are upgraded sanitation facilities and a 1.7km Improved road access.
Represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Senator Hassan HaÉ—eja, VP Shettima lauded Governor Radda’s focus on data-driven decision making for MSME development, mirroring the approach taken at the federal level. He emphasized the significance of MSMEs, accounting for 96% of Nigerian businesses, 84% of the workforce, and nearly half of the GDP.
Applauding the state’s commitment to empowering MSMEs, the Vice President acknowledged their crucial role in job creation, value addition to agriculture, and overall economic development. VP Shettima commended Governor Dikko Radda’s leadership, particularly his impactful tenure as Director-General of SMEDAN (Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria).
He also commended the appointment of Haj. Aisha Aminu Malunfashi as KASEDA Director-General, recognizing the positive impact women can have on MSMEs.
The Vice President specifically recognized Governor Radda’s creation of a $5 billion MSME fund in partnership with BOI (Bank of Industry) and SMEDAN. He emphasized the importance of providing affordable financing for small businesses, crucial for their sustainability.
He further applauded the establishment of a computer lab and call center at the IDC, acknowledging its potential to enhance digital literacy among beneficiaries, equip them for participation in e-commerce and digital trade, and facilitate nationwide and potentially global marketing opportunities.
Shettima highlighted the Federal Government’s efforts to support MSMEs, including dedicated funding initiatives through partner banks and the appointment of a Senior Special Assistant on job creation and MSMEs.
Amina Bello K/bai
Senior Information and Public Relations Officer
Head Of Centre
FIC Katsina
