The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has hailed the €60 million European Union-backed development projects as a strong signal of international trust and renewed global partnership with Nigeria, particularly in the North-West.
During a visit to project sites in Sokoto State—including the Rumbukawa Healthcare Centre and the Integrated Qur’anic School in Yabo and Gidan Igwai—the Sultan emphasized that the presence of eight EU ambassadors alongside UN officials reflects a growing global commitment to Nigeria’s development, despite attempts to undermine its image.
“These initiatives go beyond infrastructure; they affirm that the world has not given up on us. It shows belief in our people and our potential,” the Sultan said.
He reaffirmed the support of traditional institutions in ensuring the success and sustainability of the projects, which focus on health, social protection, and community resilience.
Would you like a version focused more on the traditional institution’s role or the diplomatic impact.
“In us, you will find reliable partners. These projects are important because they aim to uplift the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
Leader of the delegation, the EU Ambassador, Mr Gautier Mignor, said the team had engaged with traditional and religious leaders, including the Sultan, in recognition of his influence in the country.
The delegation also interacted with government officials, including the Deputy Gov. of Sokoto State, community members, and visited educational and healthcare institutions to observe project activities firsthand.
Mignor noted that one of the initiatives, the Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH) programme, focused on enhancing reproductive and adolescent health and reflected the EU’s strong commitment to the wellbeing of women and children.
Other projects, he said include Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI) and Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions for vulnerable populations.
“The EU is proud to invest in Nigeria’s future through initiatives that leave no one behind, whether in healthcare, livelihoods, or social protection.
“These programmes reflect our commitment to long-term, people-centered development, especially in the North-West,”he said.
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, highlighted the importance of building resilient systems, stating that social protection was a key tool for reducing poverty and promoting inclusive development.
“Through SARAH, we are expanding healthcare access for girls and mothers. Together with the EU, ILO, UNFPA, and DRC, we’re helping Nigeria build systems that protect every child,” she said.
UNFPA Resident Representative, Dr Gifty Addico, reaffirmed the agency’s long-standing presence in Sokoto and Nigeria, noting that the current interventions were expected to further improve the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians.
Addico assured that more support and transformative services in healthcare and social protection would be delivered, turning negative development indicators into positive outcomes.
In his remarks, Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Mr Faruk Umar, commended the international partners for their alignment with the state’s smart and innovative agenda, particularly in healthcare, social welfare, and protection of the most vulnerable.
He said the government provided free medical services for women and children at all public health facilities and was undertaking massive renovations and upgrades to ensure modern equipment and essential drugs were available across the state.
“We are committed to partnerships that enhance development and improve our people’s quality of life.
“We look forward to deepening collaboration with the EU on programmes that directly impact our communities,” Umar said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 60 million initiatives were officially launched on Monday by Sokoto State Deputy Gov. Alhaji Idris Gobir.
Scheduled for implementation between 2024 and 2027, the programme targets challenges affecting millions, particularly those in underserved and vulnerable communities.
The initiatives align with Nigeria’s National Development Plan and aim to build a more inclusive and sustainable social protection system, expand access to reproductive and adolescent health services, and support people displaced by conflict and climate-related crises.
