Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, has praised the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, for his visionary leadership in promoting innovation, enterprise, and youth empowerment.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that he described Katsina as “a beacon of creativity and resilience in Northern Nigeria,” commending the state’s revival of its historic legacy in education, trade, and craftsmanship. The Vice President made the remarks at the graduation ceremony of the Dikko Social Innovation Academy (DSIA) and the maiden Katsina MSME Awards and Dinner held at the Government House Banquet Hall.
Shettima recalled Katsina’s long-standing reputation as a centre of learning and leadership, referencing historic contributions such as Sheikh Mohammed Bello’s Usul Siyasa written for the Emir of Katsina, and the legacy of Katsina College, which produced some of Nigeria’s finest leaders.
He called for renewed efforts to industrialize the state by converting local raw materials into productive industries. Commending Governor Radda for establishing the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), Shettima described it as a model aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He also applauded Radda’s commitment to unity among leaders, urging collective action against insecurity and poverty.
In his remarks, Governor Radda said his administration’s commitment to enterprise and innovation is transforming youth empowerment across the state. He explained that the establishment of KASEDA and the DSIA has provided opportunities for young people to gain practical skills in entrepreneurship and innovation. Radda disclosed that 18 fellows had graduated after six months of intensive training, while future cohorts would expand participation.
He also launched the first Katsina MSME Awards to celebrate excellence and inspire young entrepreneurs, announcing a car prize for the top awardee and ₦500 million in disbursements to youth and women entrepreneurs.
Governor Radda commended Hajiya Aisha Aminu, the Director-General of KASEDA, for her outstanding leadership and achievements, including a five-year strategic plan and successful implementation of social innovation projects. Hajiya Aisha, in her speech, revealed that over 2,000 entries were received for the MSME Awards, with 21 winners and five special recognition awards.
She reaffirmed KASEDA’s commitment to expanding MSME development, youth empowerment, and innovation, highlighting ongoing partnerships such as a ₦542 million UNDP initiative supporting entrepreneurs in conflict-affected areas.
The event attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria, including former Governors Aminu Bello Masari and Ibrahim Shehu Shema, ministers, legislators, traditional rulers, and entrepreneurs. Vice President Shettima expressed gratitude to the people of Katsina for their hospitality, describing the state as “a land of history, unity, and promise.”
Governor Radda concluded by reaffirming his administration’s resolve to make Katsina a centre of enterprise and innovation, stating, “Together, we are building a prosperous and progressive Katsina.”