Katsina disburses N1bn interest-free loans to 1,500 MSMEs
By Aboki Forex —
Katsina State has disbursed over N1 billion in interest-free loans to about 1,500 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA) said the loans are aimed at expanding businesses, boosting economic activities and creating jobs across the state.
KASEDA Director-General, Dr. Babangida Rumah, disclosed this while speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the agency's pre-budget defence organised by the Katsina State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. He said the funding initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and reflects the state government's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs.
Next round of disbursement
Rumah revealed that a fresh group of applicants has already been selected and will soon receive the next round of loan disbursements. He encouraged petty traders and owners of small businesses to register with KASEDA and apply, noting that adequate funds are available for qualified applicants.
Beyond financial assistance, Rumah said the agency has distributed starter packs to members of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) to improve their vocational skills and help them expand their businesses. He added that the intervention was designed to increase the beneficiaries' capacity to generate employment while strengthening the state's small business ecosystem.
The KASEDA chief also praised the Katsina State Government for prioritising investments in MSMEs, describing the sector as a major contributor to economic development, wealth creation and job opportunities.
Mentorship push for young entrepreneurs
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Malik Anas, urged KASEDA to complement its entrepreneurship training programmes with structured mentorship for young beneficiaries. He said mentoring would equip emerging entrepreneurs with the knowledge and business management skills needed to build sustainable enterprises and ensure the government's investments deliver lasting economic benefits.
For Nigerian businesses, the Katsina loan scheme signals continued state-level support for small enterprises. More access to interest-free funding and starter packs could help petty traders and artisans expand operations, create jobs and reduce reliance on high-cost borrowing.