Governor Mai Mala Buni, of Yobe State has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to extend support to commercial banks operating in the state.
The request for support, the governor explained is to foster a conducive business environment for Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (SMEs).
The governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Idi Gubana, made this appeal during the 2024 annual dinner and awards night organized by the Damaturu Bankers Forum at the Desert View Multi-Purpose Hall, Damaturu.
Gov. Buni emphasized the critical role of the CBN as a supervisory institution and the bankers’ bank in facilitating financial collaboration among commercial banks.
“A commercial bank alone, without cooperation with its sister banks, cannot effectively create money,” he noted.
He highlighted the state government’s commitment to economic revitalization, particularly in light of the impact of insurgency on the local economy.
The governor stressed the importance of accessible and high-quality banking services in driving economic transformation.
“As we encourage our people to embrace commercial agriculture, commercial banks must support this initiative by raising awareness and offering low-interest loans to farmers and entrepreneurs,” he said.
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Gov. Buni also commended the CBN’s outreach initiatives, including frequent engagements with various trade, farmers, and women’s associations, which he described as pivotal for wealth creation and promoting self-reliance in Yobe State.
During the event, the governor expressed gratitude to the Damaturu branch of the CBN for honoring him with an award recognizing the state as the best-performing state in the education sector.
Responding, the CBN branch Controller in Damaturu, Abdulkadir Adam, noted that the CBN has consistently undertaken various projects to stimulate economic growth and development in the state.
