KATSINA — The Katsina State Executive Council has approved a direct grant programme targeting about 62,000 nano, micro, and small businesses across the state, in a major push to boost grassroots enterprise and economic growth.
The decision was among several key resolutions reached at the council’s 7th regular meeting for 2026, held at the Red Chamber of Muhammadu Buhari House and presided over by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu Zango, said the approvals reflect the administration’s commitment to people-oriented policies under its development agenda.
Director-General of the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA), Babangida Ruma, explained that the grant programme is designed to provide working capital support for small-scale businesses in all 34 local government areas, with a focus on improving livelihoods and stimulating local economies.
The council also approved the construction and asphalting of the Rahamawa–Gidan Shehi Namadi–Inwala Jan Gefe–Ring Road within Katsina metropolis. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Umar Samaila, said the project would enhance mobility, improve road durability, and boost commercial activities.
In the agricultural sector, Commissioner for Agriculture, Lawal Aliyu Shargalle, said the council approved the procurement of heavy-duty equipment for the rehabilitation and construction of irrigation earth dams to support farming, livestock, and fisheries.
Similarly, the Managing Director of the Katsina Exploration and Mining Company (KEMCO), Bello Doro, disclosed that exploration and mining equipment would be procured for sites in Tama, Tandama, and Kankara to boost revenue generation and curb illegal mining.
The council further approved free transportation and distribution of fertiliser for the 2026 rainy season across 361 wards. Community Development Programme (CDP) Coordinator, Dr. Kamal, said the initiative is aimed at ensuring direct access for farmers without intermediaries.
On education reform, Special Adviser on Qur’anic Education and Out-of-School Children, Tasiu Dandagoro, said the council approved the establishment of four pilot Khalwa Tsangaya Qur’anic model schools to modernise the Almajiri education system.
The state government said the approvals underscore its commitment to inclusive development, economic empowerment, and infrastructure expansion.
