…Says organised automobile hub will boost trade, revenue generation and youth employment
AMDON commends Radda’s development initiatives, pledges continued support
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has pledged his administration’s support for Automobile Dealers and Mechanics Association of Nigeria (AMDON) and directed that its request for a dedicated motor village in the state be considered.
Governor Radda said the proposed motor village would provide an organised platform for vehicle dealers, attract investments, create jobs and boost economic activities across the state.
He made the commitment on Thursday when the leadership of AMDON, Katsina State chapter, paid him a courtesy visit and presented its requests to the government.
Radda said the automobile sector contributes significantly to the economy, noting that vehicle trading supports several businesses and livelihoods along its value chain.
“From the importation of vehicles to clearing, transportation, repairs, car washing, painting, spare parts and other related businesses, many people benefit from this sector,” he said.
The Governor said the administration was particularly interested in initiatives that create opportunities for young people, stressing that reducing youth unemployment would also help address crime and other social vices.
“Nothing hurts society more than youth unemployment. When we create opportunities for our youths, we reduce crime, vehicle parts theft and other social vices,” Radda said.
He directed AMDON to formally submit its requests to the government, assuring that the proposal for the motor village would be forwarded to the Ministry of Lands for consideration of a suitable location.
According to him, the facility could also attract automobile companies, particularly those dealing in electric and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, to establish showrooms and businesses in Katsina.
“If you have this park, companies can come and establish showrooms for the vehicles they bring and gain access to the market. So, it is a very good initiative,” he said.
Governor Radda also assured the association that its request for stronger partnerships with automobile companies outside the country would be examined, with a view to developing a support framework for local dealers.
He said government would continue to consider proposals from organised groups that could improve livelihoods, strengthen businesses and contribute to the state’s economic development.
The Governor further highlighted ongoing efforts to improve transportation in Katsina, including intra-city transportation and the development of bus terminals to ease movement across the state.
Radda thanked AMDON for its support and understanding of government processes, assuring the association of his administration’s readiness to support initiatives that promote economic development.
Earlier, the Chairman of AMDON, Alhaji Muazu Abubakar Rimi said the association was at the Government House to present its activities, challenges and proposals, recognising the important role of the automobile sector in the economy.
He said AMDON operates across Nigeria, with branches in all 34 local government areas of Katsina State, while its activities extend to international markets where vehicles are sourced and imported.
According to him, the sector supports several businesses, including customs clearing, transportation, mechanics, spare parts trading, food vending, car washing and other services.
“Every vehicle that enters the country creates opportunities for different categories of people, from clearing agents and transporters to retailers, mechanics and other service providers,” he said.
Muazu commended Governor Radda for his development policies and programmes, particularly those focused on vulnerable citizens, infrastructure, local government development and improved governance.
He pledged AMDON’s continued cooperation and support for the administration’s efforts to develop Katsina State.
The AMDON chairman appealed to the Governor to allocate land for a dedicated motor village where members could operate in an organised and secure environment.
He said the proposed facility would protect dealers’ investments, improve government revenue through taxes and levies, and create employment for youths.
He added that the motor village would provide space for mechanics, food vendors, water sellers, spare parts dealers, car washers and other businesses linked to the automobile industry.
The chairman assured Governor Radda of AMDON’s continued loyalty and support, while praying for the success of his administration.
The event was attended by the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, members of the Katsina State Executive Council and other senior government officials.
