The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has pledged the support of traditional rulers for the implementation of 60 million euro transformative projects inaugurated for Nigeria’s north-western states.
The three initiatives, supported by the European Union (EU) in partnership with the United Nations, aim to strengthen health services, social protection systems, and community resilience across the region.
During a tour of the Rumbukawa Healthcare Centre and the Integrated Qur’anic School in Yabo and Gidan Igwai on Tuesday, the Sultan expressed optimism that the projects would significantly improve the living standards of Nigerians.
He said the visit by a high-level delegation, including eight ambassadors from EU member states, sent a strong message against those who sought to tarnish the country’s image.
“Having you in Nigeria to help solve humanitarian challenges is commendable, and our engagement with you has been encouraging.
“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 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.
