A high-level delegation of European Union (EU) Heads of Mission and development partners has concluded a strategic visit to Kano State aimed at strengthening partnerships, advancing youth engagement and supporting sustainable development initiatives across Northern Nigeria.
The delegation, led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, included representatives of EU member states, UNICEF, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, Plan International Nigeria, UN-Habitat and other international development organisations.
During the visit, the delegation held discussions with Kano State Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The meeting focused on urban development, youth empowerment, social inclusion and opportunities for stronger collaboration between Kano State and international partners.
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Speaking during the engagement, Garo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to fostering development through strategic partnerships.
“Under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State remains committed to creating an enabling environment that encourages responsible investment, promotes transparency and accountability, and fosters collaboration with international partners to achieve shared development goals,” he stressed.
The state government also presented its Urban Development Strategy, designed to promote sustainable city growth, improve infrastructure planning, strengthen resilience, encourage social cohesion and unlock economic opportunities within the metropolitan area with technical support from UN-Habitat.
For his part, Mignot said the visit demonstrated the bloc’s determination to maintain close engagement with communities and institutions in Northern Nigeria.
“This visit underlines the European Union’s commitment to being visibly present and engaged in Northern Nigeria.
“By connecting directly with communities, young people and local institutions, we are strengthening partnerships that support inclusive growth, stability and opportunity for all,” he stated.
The delegation also visited Bayero University, where members interacted with students on issues relating to youth participation, innovation and community-driven solutions to development challenges.
Also speaking, GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS Country Director Markus Wagner highlighted the importance of investing in young people and women to strengthen local economies.
“Investing in women and young entrepreneurs is key to building resilient communities. Through skills development and support to local enterprise, we are creating opportunities that strengthen local economies across Northern Nigeria,” he emphasised.
The delegation further toured several EU-supported projects, including an accelerated education programme implemented by Plan International and a Qur’anic education centre supported by UNICEF, both aimed at improving access to quality education and child protection services.
Speaking on education, Plan International Nigeria Country Director, Charles Usie, stressed the need for continued investment in learning opportunities, especially for vulnerable children.
“Quality education is more than access to a classroom; it is about creating opportunities for children to learn, thrive and shape their own futures,” he noted.
The team also visited a facility producing ready-to-use therapeutic food for malnourished children and engaged with stakeholders in the Kannywood film industry, recognising the role of media and storytelling in influencing public discourse and social development.
For her part, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, emphasised the importance of prioritising children and young people in development efforts.
“By investing in their education, health and protection, we are helping ensure that every child, especially the most vulnerable, can survive, learn and build a better future,” she stressed.
The visit concluded with participation in the North-West Governors’ Forum Policy Dialogue on reducing multidimensional poverty, where the EU and its partners reiterated their commitment to supporting inclusive development, youth empowerment and resilient social systems across Northern Nigeria.
