As part of the 2025 International MSME Day celebration, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has disbursed N50,000 each to 200 selected Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), totaling N10 million in direct support.
The cash empowerment, distributed in the state capital, is a cornerstone of the administration's broader strategy to stimulate entrepreneurship, enhance productivity, and generate employment.
"Today, we are not just giving money; we are investing in the courage and creativity of our people," Governor Radda said. "These entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy. We are committed to helping them grow, thrive, and lead the way to a more prosperous Katsina."
The celebration saw the official launch of the KASEDA Digital Academy, a new initiative by the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA) aimed at equipping MSMEs with modern skills in digital marketing, e-commerce, business development, and financial literacy all accessible remotely.
"This academy is designed to future-proof our MSMEs," the governor added. "With it, our youth and women entrepreneurs can gain vital knowledge right from their shops or homes."
Governor Radda emphasized his administration's commitment to strengthening Katsina's enterprise ecosystem. He highlighted achievements such as the expansion of business training programmes, outreach to rural and semi-urban entrepreneurs, and improved institutional support through KASEDA.
The governor also announced strategic collaborations with national financial institutions, including the Bank of Industry and Sterling Bank, alongside global development partners. These partnerships aim to scale access to funding, training, and technology for MSMEs across the state.
"We are calling on our youth, the funds and tools are here. Step forward and take them. You have our full support," Radda urged.
The event featured a two-day intensive training for the 200 selected vendors on topics such as business sustainability, customer service, and innovation. Attendees at the MSME fair included artisans, fashion designers, techpreneurs, and manufacturers who showcased their products and services.
In her opening remarks, KASEDA Director General Aisha Aminu Malumfashi—represented by Babangida Kabir Ruma, the Governor's technical assistant on enterprise development—revealed that the agency has supported over 8,000 SMEs within less than two years, facilitating over N3.4 billion in interest-free development funding.
Governor Radda concluded the celebration with a call for inclusivity and innovation:
"Let's build a Katsina where no one is too small to succeed, and every idea is given a chance to flourish."
