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GOVERNOR RADDA: A VISIONARY LEADER TACKLING INSECURITY THROUGH MSME DEVELOPMENT

 

By Abba Anwar

Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity and promoting economic growth through the domestication of the National Policy on Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (nMSMEs). 

Katsina state, under Radda, is the first state in the country that domesticates the National Policy on nMSMEs. This bold move underscores his administration's dedication to empowering youth, fostering entrepreneurship, and stimulating economic development. With this unwavering move he beats the imagination of many of his colleagues, governors across Nigeria. 

Few months into the domestication period, governor Radda recently celebrated the unveiling and graduation of 217 young entrepreneurs from Katsina State Employability Project, purposely designed to address youth restiveness, criminal activities and creating corridor for growth and development. 

During the graduation celebration, that took place at Kofar Bai Conference Hall, Katsina, the governor reiterated his commitment to economic growth, when he reveals that, "Katsina state is the first in the country to domesticate the National Policy on MSMEs and develop our State nMSMEs Policy."

To comply with the global best practices, this initiative gives priority to areas that have to do with modern technology and Artificial Intelligence. Those graduands acquired skills that include, web development, social media and email marketing, graphics and product design and entrepreneurial development. 

This speaks volumes of how focused and committed the governor is. Which undoubtedly places him above many governors in entrepreneurial development and youth inclusion in the state economy, governance and social cohesion, among many others. 

As the only governor in Nigeria with the distinction of having led the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Governor Radda brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. 

His vision for Katsina State's economic development is anchored on a multifaceted approach:

1. MSME growth

2. Skill acquisition

3. Job creation

4. Poverty alleviation

5. Improved standard of living

The establishment of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA) marks a significant milestone in Governor Radda's quest to drive MSME development and youth empowerment. Under the able leadership of Hajiya A'isha Aminu as Director General, KASEDA has recorded remarkable achievements, including:

- Launch of Dikko BDS Corp

- Training of numerous entrepreneurs

- Selection and Needs Assessment of Businesses with Growth Potentials

- Capacity-building training for KASEDA pioneer staff

- Partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI) yielding the N5 Billion MSMEs Revolving Matching and Managed Fund

- Study tour to Lagos and Abuja to learn from similar agencies

- Ongoing training of 3 youth at Social Innovation Academy, Uganda

All within a period of one year! This is amazing from all standpoints. 


Governor Radda's commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in his directive for quarterly progress reports from KASEDA, ensuring the agency remains focused on its objectives.

The Katsina MSMEs Policy, carefully crafted to align with the National Policy on MSMEs and the Katsina State Development Plan (2024-2043) Framework, serves as a blueprint for sustainable economic growth. Key components include:

- Promoting entrepreneurship education

- Enhancing access to finance

- Improving business environment

- Encouraging innovation and technology


His leadership has instilled a sense of hope and optimism among the people of Katsina State. His administration's strides in MSME development and youth empowerment offer a replicable model for tackling insecurity and promoting economic growth.

As we celebrate these achievements, we urge other state governments to draw inspiration from Governor Radda's visionary leadership. His commitment to empowering youth and fostering entrepreneurship will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on Katsina State's economic future.

Having studied his giant strides in all facets of life, as a governor, especially in the area of entrepreneurial development and youth empowerment, I have the following suggestions for sustainability purpose and good tracking system. Hence the following suggestions.

Short-term Suggestions of 0-2 years period. See below:

1. Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track KASEDA's progress. As the governor paves way for this, right from day one. 

2. Develop a mentorship program pairing successful entrepreneurs with start-ups.

3. Organize regular entrepreneurship fairs and exhibitions.

4. Collaborate with financial institutions to provide access to affordable credit.

5. Intensify skills acquisition training programs.

Medium-term Suggestions of 2-5 years. See below:

1. Develop industrial clusters and specialized economic zones.

2. Establish partnerships with international organizations for technical assistance.

3. Create a venture capital fund to support innovative start-ups.

4. Develop an e-commerce platform for MSMEs to access global markets.

5. Introduce business incubation centers.

Long-term Suggestions of 5+ years. See below:

1. Develop a comprehensive entrepreneurship curriculum for schools.

2. Establish a Katsina State Entrepreneurship Development Fund.

3. Create a network of business ambassadors and investors.

4. Develop strategic partnerships with neighboring states for regional economic growth.

5. Establish a research and development center for innovation.

My governor may need the following Cross-Cutting Suggestions again. See below:

1. Ensure inclusive participation of women and youth in MSME development programs.

2. Leverage technology for efficient program management and service delivery.

3. Foster partnerships with private sector stakeholders.

4. Develop a robust database of MSMEs for targeted interventions.

5. Encourage sustainable and environmentally-friendly business practices.


I personally believe that, by implementing these suggestions, Katsina State can:

- Enhance entrepreneurship culture

- Increase job creation

- Stimulate economic growth

- Improve living standards

- Reduce insecurity


These recommendations will help Katsina State sustain and build upon the progress made in MSME development, ensuring a brighter economic future for its citizens.

Kudos to Governor Radda for his unwavering commitment to the people of Katsina State!


Abba Anwar writes from Kano and can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com

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