Katsina State Government has intensified efforts to secure the final licensing of Amana Microfinance Bank as the Governor’s Special Adviser on Banking and Finance, Hajiya Bilkisu Sulaiman Ibrahim, held high-level discussions with officials at the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Kano branch.
The move is part of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda’s agenda to deepen financial inclusion and expand credit access to residents of Katsina. By prioritizing grassroots financial empowerment, the administration aims to revolutionize the state’s economic landscape and open more opportunities for small businesses.
Speaking during the meeting, Hajiya Bilkisu emphasized that the microfinance bank will be a strong tool in the fight against poverty while helping rural communities connect with formal banking systems. “This represents a critical pillar in Governor Radda agenda to strengthen grassroots financial services and create inclusive opportunities for entrepreneurship,” she said.
The Amana Microfinance Bank is expected to play a vital role in supporting small enterprises, while also focusing on women and youth empowerment across all 34 local government areas of Katsina State. The institution is projected to improve access to loans and financial services that can drive sustainable economic growth.
CBN Kano Branch Controller, Hajiya Saudatu Mohammed, received the delegation and assured them of the apex bank’s readiness to accelerate the licensing process. She also pledged the support of the Central Bank in strengthening financial regulation across the state.
This development forms part of Governor Radda’s wider economic transformation strategy designed to position Katsina as a major financial hub in Northwest Nigeria.