Katsina govt to support 1,662 artisans, 6,200 small businesses 

Katsina govt to support 1,662 artisans, 6,200 small businesses

The Katsina State Executive Council, on Wednesday, approved key initiatives to strengthen youth empowerment, support small businesses, boost agricultural productivity, and reform the state’s tax system.

The meeting, chaired by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, was held at the Red Chamber, General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, said the decisions underscored the administration’s resolve to deliver concrete dividends of democracy to the people in line with its “Building Your Future” Agenda.

In his brief, the Commissioner for Higher Technical and Vocational Education, Sani JB Daura, said the council approved the procurement of resettlement packages for 1,662 artisans who graduated from the Katsina Youth Craft Village training centers in Katsina, Daura, and Malumfashi.

“This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to empowering youths through skills acquisition and the provision of starter packs to enable them become self-reliant and reduce youth restiveness,” he stated.

Similarly, the Director-General of Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency, KASEDA, Dr. Babangida Rumah, said the council has approved the branding of 6,200 roadside shops and businesses across the 34 Local Government Areas of the state in preparation for financial support under the agency’s Direct Grant Programme.

“This effort follows the successful corridor mapping of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises conducted by the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency to identify and support eligible businesses,” he said.

On agriculture, the Commissioner, Lawal Aliyu Shargalle, disclosed that the council approved the procurement of assorted improved seeds from reputable companies and agro-dealers for distribution to farmers at subsidized rates for the 2026 farming season.

“This intervention is designed to enhance agricultural output by ensuring farmers have access to quality inputs and support services,” he said.

Also, the Chairman, Katsina State Internal Revenue Service, Isyaku Muhammed, said the council has approved the domestication of the 2025 Tax Reform Act to align with the state’s tax administration system.

He said a Bill on consolidated revenue law and harmonized rates and levies would be forwarded to the State House of Assembly for approval.

“This reform will provide relief to low-income earners and vulnerable citizens, while also strengthening the state’s revenue base through a more efficient and transparent tax system,” he added.

“The approvals are in line with Governor Radda’s commitment to building a more inclusive, economically vibrant, and self-reliant Katsina State under his “Building Your Future” agenda.”