By Mustapha Salisu
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, has represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at a dinner marking the conclusion of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Senior Executive Course 48, 2026 study tour in Kano.
The study tour focused on the theme, “Orange Economy and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
Speaking at the event, Garo, who represented the governor, said the Orange Economy remained a significant avenue for job creation, wealth generation and sustainable economic growth.
He said Kano State possessed enormous potential in the creative and cultural sectors, stressing that strategic investment in the sector could unlock new opportunities for young people and contribute significantly to the state’s economic development.
The Deputy Governor commended NIPSS for its contribution to national development and appreciated the institution for selecting Kano as the focus of its one-week study tour.
He said the visit provided the participants with opportunities to engage government institutions, traditional leaders, private sector operators and members of the public, as well as explore some of Kano’s cultural sites and markets.
Garo noted that such interactions would give the delegation a deeper understanding of Kano’s development realities, economic challenges, entrepreneurial spirit and rich cultural heritage.
The delegation, led by Brigadier General L.A. Jimoh, mni, visited Kano to assess development programmes and engage stakeholders on how the state could better harness its human, creative and entrepreneurial resources.
In his remarks, Jimoh commended the Kano State Government for its efforts to promote entrepreneurship, creativity and economic development.
He described Kano as a historic centre of commerce, innovation, craftsmanship, trade and human capital, noting that its rich heritage in textiles, leatherwork, fashion, agriculture, manufacturing and creative expression provides a strong foundation for the growth of the Orange Economy.
He identified traditional crafts, film, media, design, music, publishing, cultural tourism and digital enterprise as areas with significant potential for further development.
Jimoh also highlighted the revival of 26 entrepreneurship skills training schools by the state government, saying the initiative had equipped thousands of youths with vocational skills, working tools and start-up support.
He said such interventions demonstrated the capacity of the Orange Economy to create wealth, empower women and youths, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen Kano’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy.
Earlier, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani, mni, welcomed the NIPSS delegation and appreciated the institute for choosing Kano for the study tour.
The Chairman of the Planning Committee and Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud, also commended members of the committee and the NIPSS delegation for the successful engagement.