Peace Returns: All Our Markets Are Fully Operational” — Governor Radda
By Bashir Yahuza Malumfashi
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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has stated that no market is currently closed across the state’s 34 local government areas, noting that all markets are open and economic activities are ongoing.
The Governor made this known during a meeting with leaders of traders’ associations and market leaders from the 34 local government areas of the state, led by the Chairman of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service, Alhaji Aminu Isyaku.
According to Governor Radda, the development is largely attributable to the significant improvement in the security situation across the state, which has enabled traders to return to their markets and conduct their businesses in a relatively conducive environment compared with previous years.
He acknowledged that security challenges have not been completely eliminated, but stressed that significant progress has been recorded when compared with the situation in previous years, when insecurity forced the official closure of more than eight markets in different parts of the state.
The Governor emphasised the critical role of markets in driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, increasing internally generated revenue and improving the living standards of the people. He therefore urged market leaders and traders to continue supporting the government in sustaining the progress achieved.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service, Alhaji Aminu Isyaku, said the collaboration between the agency and traders’ associations had significantly improved tax collection, particularly from the informal sector of the economy.
He said the partnership had contributed to the state government’s ability to achieve some of its internally generated revenue targets over the past three years, while also fostering better understanding and cooperation between the government and the business community.
The market leaders from the 34 local government areas commended Governor Radda for what they described as his exemplary leadership and efforts to create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
They pledged to continue supporting the government’s efforts to improve revenue collection and promote economic development across the state.
They also commended the government for its market development projects, particularly the construction of modern markets in Mashi, Daura and Charanci, as well as similar projects planned for other parts of the state.
Responding, Governor Radda thanked the market leaders for their contributions to the economic development of Katsina State, stressing that sustained collaboration between the government and the business community was essential to building a strong and sustainable economy.
He further urged market leaders to ensure compliance with established business regulations, support security efforts and continue to back government policies aimed at creating a favourable environment for businesses to operate across the state.
The Governor assured the people that his administration would continue to prioritise security and the provision of essential infrastructure in markets, with a view to strengthening commercial activities and creating an environment that would enable traders and investors to conduct their businesses in peace and stability.
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