European Union, in partnership with the United Nations and the Government of Nigeria, has launched three transformative projects aimed at assisting Nigeria’s health services, social protection, and community resilience sectors across the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto state, the EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignor noted that the three projects, launched in Sokoto and other states include the Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH), Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), and Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions (SPADS).
Responding, Governor Ahmed Aliyu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Idris Gobir, said the three projects are not only timely but also aligned with the developmental priorities of the state government’s nine-point agenda, especially in the areas of healthcare, social welfare, and protection for the most vulnerable members of society.
The governor assured the delegation that the state remained committed to partnerships that promote development and improve the quality of life of its people, stressing that it is determined to work closely with the European Union in all areas of mutual interest, especially in programmes that directly impact our communities.
Members of the delegation included the EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignor, who led eight other EU Ambassadors from Sweden, Portugal, Poland, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Denmark, and Germany.
He explained that prominent on the delegation are Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Vanessa Phala, Country Director of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Dr Gifty Addico, UNFPA Resident Representative, and Pierre Mendiharat, Country Director of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC).
Also on a courtesy call to the Sultan of Sokoto, Mignor told Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar of the EU’s determination to partner with the Sultanate while stressing the Council’s role in addressing humanitarian challenges in Nigeria.
The Sultan expressed optimism that the delegation would send a strong message against those who paint the country in a bad light.
He commended the EU for the initiative, noting that the projects are a testament to the EU’s enduring support and shared vision for a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive society.
The team visited the Quranic school in Yabo LGA and the health facility in Sokoto South LGA, intending to take inventory on how to provide the needed support through the three projects provided.
