EU Heads of Mission Conclude Kano Visit to Boost Youth, Education, and Urban Development Partnerships

A high-level delegation of European Union Heads of Mission to Nigeria, led by EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS Gautier Mignot, has concluded a multi-day visit to Kano State aimed at strengthening engagement with youth, communities, and regional partners in Northern Nigeria.

The delegation, which included representatives from UNICEF, GIZ on behalf of the German Government, Plan International Nigeria, UN-Habitat, and other development partners, met with Kano’s Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo, who stood in for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Garo said Kano State remains committed to partnerships that drive development. “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 said.

Kano State also presented its Urban Development Strategy, developed with technical support from UN-Habitat. The plan focuses on sustainable growth, infrastructure, resilience, social cohesion, and economic opportunities across the metropolitan region.

Ambassador Mignot said the visit reflects the EU’s push to be more present 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 said.

At Bayero University Kano, the EU delegation held an interactive session with students on youth participation and locally driven solutions. 

Dr Markus Wagner, GIZ Nigeria Country Director, stressed investment in young entrepreneurs. “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 said.

The team also reviewed EU-supported programmes, including an accelerated education initiative by Plan International and a Qur’anic education centre backed by UNICEF. 

Dr Charles Usie, Country Director of Plan International Nigeria, said quality education requires sustained investment, especially for girls. UNICEF Representative Wafaa Saeed added that children and young people are central to the engagement.

The delegation visited a facility producing ready-to-use therapeutic food for malnourished children and met with Kannywood media stakeholders to discuss local storytelling and social change. 

The mission ended with the EU’s renewed commitment at the Northwest Governors’ Forum Policy Dialogue on Reducing Multidimensional Poverty to deepen collaboration, expand opportunities for youth and women, and support inclusive systems across Northern Nigeria.