A high-level delegation of EU Member States Heads of Missions and their Deputies, led by EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS Gautier Mignot, has concluded a multi-day engagement in Kano State aimed at strengthening strategic visibility, public diplomacy, and partnerships across Northern Nigeria. The mission, which ran from 8 to 11 June 2026, included meetings with state officials, development partners, and site visits to EU-supported programmes.
The delegation met with Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and discussed urban development, youth opportunities, and social inclusion. The Kano State Government presented its Urban Development Strategy, developed with technical support from UN-Habitat, to guide sustainable urban growth, improve resilience, and unlock economic opportunities. Ambassador Mignot stated: "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."
At Bayero University Kano, the EU envoys engaged with students on youth participation and locally driven solutions. The delegation also observed an accelerated education programme supported by Plan International and a Qur'anic education centre supported by UNICEF, promoting inclusive learning and child protection. Dr Charles Usie, Country Director of Plan International Nigeria, said: "Quality education is more than access to a classroom; it is about creating opportunities for children to learn, thrive, and shape their own futures." Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, added: "Children and young people are at the centre of this engagement. By investing in their education, health, and protection, we are helping ensure that every child, especially the most vulnerable, can survive, learn, and build a better future."
The delegation visited a facility producing ready-to-use therapeutic food for children affected by malnutrition and media platforms such as Kannywood, highlighting the role of local storytelling in social change. Dr Markus Wagner, Country Director of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, noted: "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."
The mission concluded with the EU Heads of Mission participating in the Northwest Governors' Forum Policy Dialogue on Reducing Multidimensional Poverty, renewing the EU's commitment to deepen collaboration across Northern Nigeria, expand opportunities for young people and women, and support inclusive, resilient systems that respond to local needs.