Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, on Tuesday announced that all markets in the 34 Local Government Areas of the state are now fully open for economic activities, following significant improvements in security.
A statement signed by Ibrahim kaula Mohammad, chief press secretary to the Governor,said the Governor stated this while receiving leaders of market associations, popularly known as Sarakunan Kasuwa, from the 34 LGAs at Government House, Katsina.
The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service, Alhaji Isyaku Mohammed.
Governor Radda commended the market associations for their cooperation and contributions to the economic development of the state.
He said the full reopening of markets was clear evidence of progress in the administration’s efforts to improve security and restore confidence among traders and other economic actors.
“Although we cannot say that security challenges have been completely eradicated, there is a visible and significant improvement compared to where we started in 2023. Today, all our markets are open for economic activities,” Governor Radda said.
He noted that open markets will strengthen local economies, create jobs, boost government revenue and improve the livelihoods of citizens.
“When our markets are open, our people can trade, businesses can grow, government can generate revenue and families can improve their livelihoods,” he said.
The Governor assured market leaders of his administration’s continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening commerce, improving market infrastructure and creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
He urged the associations to continue supporting government revenue mobilisation efforts and to ensure their members comply with laws, regulations and market guidelines.
“I urge you to continue cooperating with government, particularly in revenue mobilisation, market regulation and peaceful coexistence. The development of Katsina State is a collective responsibility,” he added.
Earlier, Alhaji Isyaku Mohammed said the engagement was to appreciate market associations for their role in revenue mobilisation and to discuss additional strategies for improving Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.
He explained that engaging organised market associations had significantly improved revenue collection from the informal sector and contributed to the state’s revenue growth in the last three years.
According to him, the associations have supported the state’s revenue targets through improved cooperation, compliance and coordination.
Speaking on behalf of the market associations, the Chairman of the coalition, Alhaji Bashir Ibrahim Faskari commended Governor Radda for his leadership and commitment to improving the business environment across the state.
He assured the Governor of their continued cooperation in strengthening revenue mobilisation and promoting sustainable economic development.
The market leaders also commended the administration for developing and modernising markets across the state, especially the construction of modern markets in Mashi, Daura, Charanchi, Mai’adua and other areas.
They said the projects will provide better trading environments, attract investment and further boost economic activities in Katsina State.
The meeting was attended by the Chief of Staff, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; Principal Private Secretary, Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; members of the State Executive Council and other top government officials.
