By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The European Union (EU) and its development partners have reaffirmed their commitment to Northern Nigeria’s development following the conclusion of a high-profile strategic visibility and public diplomacy mission to Kano State.
The multi-day engagement brought together EU Member States Heads of Mission and their Deputies, led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, alongside representatives of UNICEF, GIZ, Plan International Nigeria, UN-Habitat, and other international development organizations.
During the visit, the delegation held talks with Kano State Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, focusing on sustainable urban development, youth empowerment, social inclusion, and stronger international partnerships.
Presenting the state’s vision, the Kano government unveiled its Urban Development Strategy, designed to drive sustainable growth, strengthen infrastructure planning, enhance resilience, promote peace and regional integration, and unlock economic opportunities across the metropolitan area with technical backing from UN-Habitat.
Speaking on the mission’s significance, Ambassador Mignot said the visit demonstrated the EU’s determination to remain actively 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 engaged students at Bayero University Kano, where discussions centered on youth participation, innovation, and locally driven solutions to development challenges.
At various project sites, the team inspected EU-supported and partner-led initiatives, including accelerated education programmes, Qur’anic education centres, child protection projects, and facilities producing therapeutic food for malnourished children.
Country Director of Plan International Nigeria, Dr. Charles Usie, stressed the need for sustained investment in education, particularly for girls and vulnerable children, while UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, emphasized that investments in children’s education, health, and protection remain critical to securing a better future.
The delegation also visited Kannywood media platforms, highlighting the growing role of local storytelling and creative industries in driving social change and shaping public discourse.
The mission culminated with participation in the Northwest Governors’ Forum Policy Dialogue on Reducing Multidimensional Poverty, where the EU and its partners renewed their commitment to expanding opportunities for women and young people while supporting inclusive and resilient systems across Northern Nigeria.
The visit underscored a shared resolve between Kano State, the European Union, and development partners to deepen cooperation and accelerate sustainable development outcomes across the region.
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