Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has emphasised the importance of diversifying the state’s economy beyond oil dependency.

According to him, the state is endowed with abundant natural resources in agriculture, textiles, and the mineral sectors.

He disclosed this while inaugurating a capacity-building workshop for exporters at the Munaj Events Center.

Speaking at the one-day workshop themed “Unlocking Export Potentials: Strategies for Success,” organized by the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), the governor said that the state will wake up to tap the abundant resources within.

He highlighted various sectors where Katsina holds significant competitive advantages in the export market.

“Our state is endowed with vast untapped potential in agriculture, textiles, and mineral resources that can substantially contribute to our export portfolio,” he added.

The governor assured that he would continue to support initiatives aimed at enhancing local exporters’ capabilities.

“This workshop represents our administration’s dedication to equipping our exporters with the necessary tools and knowledge to compete effectively in the global marketplace,” he said.

He urged participants to leverage the insights gained to enhance their business operations and contribute to Katsina’s economic growth.

Speaking earlier, the Director General of KIPA, Alhaji Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi, said the event aligned with the administration’s commitment to strengthening small and medium enterprises across the state.

“Participants received comprehensive training on crucial aspects of international trade, including market access strategies, quality assurance protocols, digital marketing techniques, and navigating international trade regulations,” Alhaji Tukur noted.

Security stakeholders and government officials at the event expressed strong support for the investment initiative.

The State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar Musa, addressed concerns about regional security, noting that media reports often exaggerate challenges despite ongoing successful interventions.

Musa explained that over 70 percent of farmers have successfully cultivated their lands during the latest cropping season, contributing to stable commodity prices in local markets.

“We assure investors of the safety of their investments in Katsina State,” CP Musa added.

“The successful agricultural season demonstrates the improving security situation across our farming communities.”

Also speaking, the State Comptroller of Immigration, Mohamed Mahmoud Adamu, pledged his department’s support in facilitating documentation processes for exporters and investors.

“We are committed to ensuring streamlined access to valid documentation for all legitimate business operators in our state,” Comptroller Adamu affirmed.

‘We need to look beyond oil’ – Gov Radda pushes for agriculture, textiles growth in Katsina