We are determined to work closely with EU on mutual interest – Sultan, Governor
By KEMI KASUMU and OUR REPORTER
The Sokoto State government says it is determined to work closely with the European Union (EU) in all areas of mutual interest, especially on programmes that have direct impact on lives of people of the state.
Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammad Gobir, who represented Governor Ahmad Aliyu, stated this during the launch of three key EU-funded projects namely: SUSI, SARAH and SPADS, as part of a $300 million commitment to North West and North East regions of the country, held in Sokoto on Tuesday May 6, 2025.
The governor thanked the EU for the initiative and pledged the state government’s support and cooperation towards the success of the programme.
In his speech, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto Caliphate, outlined his role in peace building, inter-faith harmony and community development, as he affirmed the EU’s respect for religious freedom and cultural values, noting that their cooperation is rooted in mutual respect.
Earlier speaking, EU Ambassador to Nigeria Mr Gautier Mignot said the programme is intended to enable the targeted population have access to reproductive and adolescent health, support sustainable social protection in Nigeria and support for protection assistance and durable solutions.
He sought for maximum cooperation from the state government and the Sultanate Council for achievement of the desired objective.
The Ambassador, who had led an EU delegation to the Sultan in his palace on Monday, was in company of his counterparts from Germany, Sweden, Belgium, Portugal, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Finland and Denmark.
The DEFENDER reports that the Team Europe launched three major initiatives in Sokoto, as part of the Europe Month celebrations, reaffirming its commitment to advancing human development, protection, and inclusive governance in Nigeria.
The initiatives launched are Supporting Sustainable and Innovative for Social Protection (SUSI); EU Support for Protection, Assistance and Durable Solutions in Sokoto State (SPADS); and Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH).
According to the team, these programmes demonstrate the European Union’s continued dedication to improving lives, empowering vulnerable populations, and supporting sustainable, rights-based solutions in Nigeria.
