The European Union (EU) in partnership with the United Nations and the Federal Government of Nigeria has launched three projects aimed at strengthening health services, social protection and community resilience across the country.
The launching which took place at the Sokoto State Government House, drew high-level participation from the EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignor who led ambassadors of Sweden, Portugal, Poland, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Denmark and Germany to the event.
Sokoto State governor, Ahmed Aliyu, who was represented by his deputy, Idris Gobir said the projects launched in the state include Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH), Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), and Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions.
Governor Aliyu said the projects are not only timely but also perfectly aligned with the developmental priorities of his administration.
“These initiatives are directly aligned with our government’s 9-Point smart innovative Agenda, particularly in the areas of healthcare, social welfare, and protection for the most vulnerable members of our society,” the Governor said.
Prominent on the delegation include UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate; Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Dr. Vanessa Phala; UNFPA Resident Representative, Dr. Gifty Addico and Country Director of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Pierre Mendiharat.
The €60 million projects, which are designed to tackle key challenges affecting millions of Nigerians, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities, will be implemented between 2024 and 2027.
At the launch, the EU Ambassador reaffirmed the EU’s deep commitment to equity and inclusion.
“The EU is proud to invest in Nigeria’s future through programmes that leave no one behind-whether it is better healthcare, livelihood support, or social protection,” Mignor said.
In a same vein, the UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Munduate, emphasised the importance of resilience and system strengthening.
“Social protection is a vital mechanism for reducing poverty and promoting inclusive development. And through SARAH, we are improving healthcare access for girls and mothers. Together with the EU, ILO, UNFPA, and DRC, we are helping Nigeria build strong systems that protect every child,” Munduate said.
DRC’s Pierre Mendiharat added that the programmes were community-driven, with action plans based on local priorities to ensure lasting and inclusive solutions.
At the Sultanate Council, Mignor told the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar of the EU’s determination to partner with the Sultanate, while stressing the Council’s role in addressing humanitarian challenges in Nigeria.
The Sultan expressed optimism that the high-powered delegation comprising eight other Ambassadors from EU member states in Nigeria, sends strong message against those who paint the country in the bad light.
He assured that the religious and traditional leaders will work hand-in-hand with the state government to ensure the successfully implementation of the projects.
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