The European Union (EU) has announced a €39 million project focused on social protection for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the vulnerable population in Borno State.
This was made known yesterday by the head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Mr Gautier Magnot during his visit to the state.
At Government House, Maiduguri, where Mr Magnot was received by Governor Babagana Zulum, he lauded the resilience of the Borno people and the leadership of Gov Zulum in overcoming numerous challenges.
Mr Magnot also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to the state, noting that the region has been a priority for EU assistance since 2016.
He said the project is co-funded with Germany and set to be implemented in partnership with the Nigerian Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
Also speaking, the German country director, Marcus Wagner, emphasised the programme’s focus on gender equality, economic resilience and supporting marginalised communities.
He commended the state government for creating a conducive environment for such programmes to thrive and underscored the importance of continued cooperation to foster sustainable livelihoods and development.
In his remarks, Gov Zulum emphasised the importance of partnership in addressing critical challenges in the state, particularly in areas of food security, education and the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs), highlighting Borno’s achievements over the past four years and called for continued support as the state works towards long-term stability and development.
The governor noted the importance of integrating non-formal Islamic education into the formal system in Borno State, particularly through vocational training.
Mr Wagner applauded the achievements of the Muna Vocational Centre in Maiduguri, built by the Borno State Government under Governor Zulum.
Also speaking at the Muna Vocational Centre, Governor Zulum outlined efforts to streamline traditional Tsangaya (Islamic) education with formal education, including literacy, numeracy and digital skills.
He also revealed that 27 high Islamic schools have been established to provide comprehensive education to students from various backgrounds, including vulnerable women and people affected by conflicts.
The centre offers both soft and hard skills training, preparing students for various trades such as aluminum fabrication, solar installation, plumbing, leatherworks and electrical installation.
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