Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
KANO, Nigeria – The European Union and its development partners have strengthened cooperation with Kano State through a high-level engagement focused on youth empowerment, urban development, education and poverty reduction across Northern Nigeria.
The strategic visit, led by European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, brought together Heads of Mission and Deputy Heads of Mission of EU Member States alongside representatives of UNICEF, GIZ, Plan International Nigeria, UN-Habitat and other international development organisations.
According to a statement issued by UNICEF on Wednesday, during meetings with Kano State Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, both sides explored opportunities to expand collaboration in youth development, social inclusion, infrastructure planning and sustainable economic growth.
The delegation reviewed Kano State’s Urban Development Strategy, developed with technical support from UN-Habitat, aimed at promoting sustainable urbanisation, improving infrastructure, fostering peaceful coexistence and creating economic opportunities across the state.
Speaking during the engagement, Ambassador Mignot said the visit underscored the European Union’s commitment to maintaining strong partnerships with communities and institutions across Northern Nigeria.
“This engagement demonstrates our commitment to direct dialogue, cooperation and development partnerships that improve lives and create opportunities for young people,” he said.
At Bayero University Kano, members of the delegation interacted with students on innovation, entrepreneurship and youth-led solutions to development challenges.
Country Director of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, Dr Markus Wagner, highlighted the importance of supporting women and young entrepreneurs to strengthen local economies and build resilient communities.
Similarly, Plan International Nigeria Country Director, Dr Charles Usie, stressed the need to ensure children, especially girls and vulnerable groups, have access to quality education and opportunities that enable them to thrive.
The delegation also visited several EU-supported projects, including accelerated learning programmes, a Qur’anic education centre and a therapeutic food production facility for malnourished children.
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, said investments in child health, education and protection remain critical to securing better futures for vulnerable children.
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Korede Abdullah 
Oluwafunbi Bello