Economic Confidential, October 2007

STATE

Katsina Has N19 Billion In Its Account

Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema of Katsina State has disclosed that the State government and the 34 local government councils have N22billion in their coffers, even as he promised that the money would be used judiciously in developing the state. Of the amount the state has N19billion while N3billion belongs to the 34 local governments.

The governor pointed out that the N3billion is meant for execution of projects and not for reckless expenditure. He revealed this during a question and answer session at Government House. He added that since May this year, his administration had embarked on gradual payments of debts to local councils by contractors.

He then asked the local council caretaker committee chairmen in the state to exhibit tolerance in carrying out the burden of governance in their respective areas. He further restated the policy thrust of his administration in promoting the establishment of plantations in the state. He said before the end of this year five hectares of land would be cleared for sugar plantation as it can be used for ethanol production. Adding that gum arabic, which is in high demand in America, would be given priority.