Nigeria has secured a £19 million funding commitment from the United Kingdom to strengthen climate-resilient health and education facilities, in partnership with UNICEF, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the Governments of Kano and Jigawa States.
The initiative, launched at Wangara Primary School in Kano State, forms part of the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS) project, designed to ensure schools and health centres can withstand climate-related shocks.
“Today, as we hand over these facilities, we are not just giving keys. We are handing over symbols of resilience, equity, and hope,” said UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed.
She explained that “the 55 facilities, 27 health centres and 28 schools, were upgraded through climate-smart solutions such as improved natural ventilation, flood-resistant structures, and solar-powered energy systems. The 84 facilities, comprising 39 primary healthcare centres and 45 schools in Kano and Jigawa states, have also been assessed and strengthened through CRIBS.”
Ms Saeed noted that the upgraded facilities would provide safe spaces for children to learn, grow, and receive care despite climate challenges. She described CRIBS as “a model for delivering climate-resilient services, not only for Nigeria but globally.”
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Kano State Governor, represented by Commissioner for Education Ali Makoda, hailed the project as a turning point for the state’s education and healthcare systems.
“The project serves as a model for other states in Nigeria and beyond, demonstrating the potential for climate-resilient infrastructure to support continuous learning and healthcare services despite climate-related challenges,” Mr Makoda said.
The £19 million initiative, valued at over ₦200 million, is a joint effort between the Ministries of Education and Health, supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
It has now expanded beyond Kano and Jigawa to include Bauchi, Enugu, Gombe, Kaduna, and Katsina States.
With this partnership, Nigeria is positioning climate resilience as a cornerstone of its development strategy, showcasing innovation and leadership in tackling one of the world’s most pressing challenges.