Kano, France, Strengthen Ties On Water Sector Reform

The Kano State government and the Government of France have renewed their partnership under the National Water Sector Reform Programme, with both sides expressing their readiness to expand cooperation beyond the ongoing interventions.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, Governor Abba Yusuf received the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, who led an eight-member delegation to Government House, Kano, to review progress on water sector projects and explore new areas of collaboration.

He quoted Ambassador Fonbaustier as saying the composition of his team underscores the importance France places on Kano and the wider northern region, stressing that the two countries share a common destiny.

He reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting reforms that prioritise social outcomes, institutional strengthening, and long-term sustainability in the water sector.

He explained that France’s involvement in the National Water Sector Reform Programme focuses on governance, capacity development, and enhancing system efficiency, rather than hardware investments.

He added that Paris is already funding key water initiatives in the state and is open to scaling up its support.

He added that “Our cooperation with Kano is solid, and today’s discussions opened new opportunities for expanded partnership,” he said.

He further identified transportation and mobility as viable prospects for future collaboration.

Governor Yusuf, in his remarks, thanked the French Government for its sustained assistance and pledged that his administration will continue to pursue reliable, accessible, and socially responsive water services for residents.

He assured that Kano remains committed to aligning with national water reform objectives through institutional reforms, transparency, and improved sector performance.