KATSINA — The Katsina State Government has announced a massive ₦31 billion intervention package within its 2026 fiscal framework, specifically targeting small businesses, young graduates, and vulnerable households.
The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Malik Anas, revealed the details during a briefing in the state capital, noting that the allocations are the cornerstone of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s “Building Your Future” agenda.
₦10 Billion for MSME Expansion
In a move to decentralize industrial growth and stimulate local production, the state has earmarked ₦10 billion exclusively for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
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The Goal: To expand access to finance for local producers who often struggle with high interest rates from commercial lenders.
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The Impact: Strengthening small-scale businesses to become the primary drivers of Katsina’s local economy.
The Graduate Entrepreneurship Programme (GEP)
Addressing the challenge of youth unemployment, the state has allocated ₦3.33 billion to the Graduate Entrepreneurship Programme. This initiative is designed to move beyond traditional job seeking by providing:
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Technical Skills: Modern vocational and digital training.
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Mentorship: Connecting fresh graduates with established industry leaders.
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Startup Support: Providing the initial capital needed to transform business ideas into sustainable ventures.
Social Safety Nets & Palliatives
Recognizing the persistent economic pressures on the most vulnerable, the 2026 budget includes significant provisions for social welfare:
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Social Investment Programme (SIP): ₦10 billion to support low-income households through direct interventions.
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Economic Palliatives: ₦7.68 billion specifically set aside to cushion the impact of inflation and rising living costs.
Katsina 2026 Economic Pillars
| Sector | Allocation | Primary Objective |
| MSMEs | ₦10 Billion | Stimulate local production and financial inclusion. |
| Graduate Entrepreneurs | ₦3.33 Billion | Skill acquisition and startup capital for graduates. |
| Social Investment | ₦10 Billion | Direct support for vulnerable households. |
| Palliatives | ₦7.68 Billion | Mitigating the impact of economic challenges. |
Alhaji Anas emphasized that these provisions are not merely “handouts” but strategic investments meant to enhance financial inclusion and improve the overall standard of living across the state’s 34 local government areas.
