Kano Seeks Stronger EU Partnership On Urban Development, Economy

 

The Kano State Government has called for deeper collaboration with the European Union in key sectors aimed at driving sustainable development and improving living standards across the state.

Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo made the appeal in Kano during a meeting with European Union ambassadors and representatives of eight member states, who were in the state as part of an official visit.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Abba Yusuf, Garo said the engagement provided an avenue to present Kano’s long-term urban development vision and attract strategic partnerships.

“As one of Africa’s oldest and fastest-growing commercial hubs, Kano faces both opportunities and challenges associated with rapid urbanisation,” he said.

He pointed to growing pressure on infrastructure, housing, transportation, sanitation, and environmental management, stressing the need for innovative solutions.

Garo explained that the state had developed a comprehensive Urban Development Strategy to guide coordinated and sustainable growth.

“This strategy reflects our commitment to modern urban planning, improved infrastructure delivery, climate resilience, economic competitiveness, digital innovation and enhanced quality of life for all residents,” he said.

He added that the plan aligns with national priorities, the Sustainable Development Goals and global standards in urban governance.

The deputy governor urged the European Union to support Kano in education, skills development, youth employment, agriculture, healthcare, climate adaptation, renewable energy and digital connectivity.

He also sought technical assistance in reviewing the state’s draft Public-Private Partnership policy to improve investment opportunities.

“We believe stronger cooperation between the European Union and Kano State will contribute to shared prosperity, social stability and sustainable development,” Garo said.

He assured investors of the state government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and an enabling business environment.

In his remarks, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, described Kano as a key development hub in Northern Nigeria.

“The fact that we selected Kano for this year’s mission reflects the importance we attach to the state as a strategic partner in our cooperation with Nigeria,” he said.

Mignot noted that the visit formed part of the EU’s annual field mission aimed at strengthening engagement across regions.

He added that the EU and Nigeria recently agreed to deepen relations during the eighth EU-Nigeria Ministerial Dialogue held in Abuja.

According to him, the partnership is anchored on shared values such as democracy, human rights, rule of law, social inclusion, and economic growth.

“I believe this visit further demonstrates the depth of our cooperation and the many opportunities that Kano State offers,” Mignot said.

The visit is expected to strengthen collaboration between Kano State and the European Union in urban development, renewable energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, and investment.

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