Kano State Government has appealed to the European Union (EU) for enhanced collaboration in education, economic policies development, agriculture, healthcare, climate action, and infrastructure as part of efforts to accelerate sustainable development and improve the livelihoods of millions of residents in the State
The appeal was made today (Monday) by the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo while representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during the presentation of Kano State’s Urban Development Strategy to Ambassadors and representatives of European Union members in his Office
Speaking at the engagement, Alhaji Murtala Garo described Kano as one of Africa’s oldest and fastest-growing commercial centres, stressing that strategic partnerships with international development partners remain critical to addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with rapid urbanisation.
On behalf of the people of Kano State, the Deputy Governor called for increased EU support in education and skills development through investments in educational infrastructure, teacher training, vocational education, and digital learning initiatives.
He said the state seeks support for “educational infrastructure, teacher training, vocational education, and digital learning initiatives,” as well as scholarship and exchange opportunities for students and professionals to strengthen human capital development.
Garo further appealed for collaboration in promoting economic growth and youth employment through investments in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurship development programmes, and innovation hubs capable of creating sustainable jobs for young people.
According to him, Kano requires support for “entrepreneurship development programmes and innovation hubs” that will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth across the state.
The Deputy Governor also requested EU intervention in the review and validation of Kano State’s draft sub-national Public-Private Partnership (PPP) policy to ensure it aligns with the state’s economic realities and development aspirations.
In the agricultural sector, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo sought support for “modern agricultural technologies, irrigation systems, value-chain development, livestock development, and capacity-building programmes for farmers.”
He noted that support for “climate-smart agricultural practices” would significantly improve food security, agricultural productivity, and resilience against environmental challenges.
The Kano State Government also appealed for assistance in strengthening healthcare systems, including “maternal and child health services, disease prevention programmes, and access to essential medical resources.”
On environmental sustainability, the Deputy Governor called for support in addressing “desertification, environmental degradation, renewable energy development, and climate adaptation initiatives” aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and promoting sustainable growth.
He further highlighted the need for partnerships that promote “sustainable infrastructure, clean energy solutions, and digital connectivity” to accelerate economic development and modernise public services.
Relatively, the Deputy Governor presented Kano State’s Urban Development Strategy, describing it as a comprehensive framework designed to promote “sustainable urban growth, climate resilience, improved infrastructure, economic competitiveness, and better living standards” for residents.
Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo however expressed confidence that stronger cooperation between the European Union and Kano State government would promote “shared prosperity, social stability, and sustainable development” while deepening relations between both parties.
He urged the EU to consider Kano State a “strategic partner for development initiatives and investment opportunities,” noting that such collaboration would advance the common goals of “peace, progress, and human dignity.”
Speaking earlier, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot who lead the delegation expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to the delegation in Kano, describing the visit as an important demonstration of the EU’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the state.
Mignot noted that the delegation, comprising ambassadors and representatives from eight EU member states, selected Kano for its annual diplomatic visit this year because of the state’s strategic importance as “a major development hub for Northern Nigeria” and the wider Sahel region.
He said the choice of Kano emphasized the importance the European Union attaches to its partnership with the state and its recognition of the opportunities available for deeper cooperation in development, investment, and economic growth.
The ambassador highlighted the strong economic relationship between Nigeria and the European Union, noting that the EU remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner, while also serving as the country’s leading market for non-oil and gas exports.
According to him, the partnership is supported by significant investments, with EU countries contributing roughly one-third of foreign direct investment in Nigeria, alongside development interventions targeted at job creation, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion, sustainable development, and infrastructure growth. Lurwanu Idris Malikawa Garu Public Relation Officer, Deputy Governor’s Office Kano State.