Katsina to boost financial inclusion through microfinance bank licensing

The Katsina State Government has ramped up efforts to secure the final licensing of Amana Microfinance Bank as the state Governor’s Special Adviser on Banking and Finance, Hajiya Bilkisu Sulaiman Ibrahim, visited the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Kano branch for high-level discussion for the licence.

The strategic move is aimed at deepening financial inclusion and expanding credit access for Katsina residents, signalling Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s progressive push to revolutionise State’s economic landscape through grassroots financial empowerment.Bilkisu

Bilkisu told CBN officials that the proposed next steps for the microfinance bank would serve as a critical weapon in the administration’s war against poverty while bridging the gap between rural communities and formal banking systems.

“This represents a critical pillar in Governor Radda agenda to strengthen grassroots financial services and create inclusive opportunities for entrepreneurship,” the Special Adviser declared during the crucial meeting.She

She added that the microfinance bank is expected to unleash massive support for small businesses while specifically targeting women and youth empowerment across the state’s 34 Local Government Areas.Responding

Responding, Saudatu Mohammed, CBN Kano Branch Controller, who warmly received the Katsina delegation, pledged the apex bank’s readiness to fast-track the licensing process while enhancing financial regulation across the State.The

The development came as part of Governor Radda’s broader economic transformation agenda aimed at positioning Katsina as a major financial hub in Northwest Nigeria.