By Na’ima Musa Umar
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, on behalf of the Executive Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, received a delegation of ambassadors and representatives of European Union member states during a high-level engagement focused on urban planning, economic expansion, environmental management, and future areas of cooperation between Kano State and the European Union.
Leading the delegation, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, expressed the appreciation of the visiting diplomats for the reception accorded to them by the Kano State Government.
He remarked that from their arrival in Kano, members of the delegation had been received with warmth and courtesy, noting that the hospitality extended to them reflected the character and rich traditions for which the state is widely known. He added that the visit had provided an opportunity not only to engage government officials but also to gain a broader understanding of Kano’s history, economic significance, and development aspirations.
(Photo Credit: SARAKEE NG)
Ambassador Mignot observed that closer engagement between development partners and sub-national governments remains important in addressing contemporary challenges associated with urban growth, environmental pressures, economic inclusion, and public service delivery.
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Welcoming the delegation, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo conveyed the greetings of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and thanked the ambassadors for choosing Kano as part of their official engagements in Nigeria.
He described the visit as an opportunity for frank discussions on matters that bear directly on the future of one of Africa’s most populous and commercially vibrant urban centres. He noted that Kano’s expanding population, strategic location, and economic influence require thoughtful planning and substantial investment in infrastructure, public services, and environmental management.
(Photo Credit: SARAKEE NG)
The Deputy Governor also presented Kano State’s appeal for closer engagement with the European Union in areas including education and technical training, enterprise development, youth employment, agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, digital innovation, and public infrastructure.
Particular attention was drawn to the state’s draft sub-national Public-Private Partnership Policy, for which technical guidance and expert review were requested to ensure that the framework reflects sound international practice while remaining suitable to local realities.
A detailed presentation on the state’s urban development agenda was delivered by the Commissioner for Housing Development, Arch. Ibrahim Yakubu Adamu, under the theme: “Urban Development Strategy for Kano Metropolitan City: Pathway to Integration, Resilience and Livelihood.”
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The presentation examined the pressures associated with rapid urban expansion and set out proposals for land use planning, transportation systems, housing, sanitation, environmental protection, public utilities, and the modernization of urban infrastructure. It also outlined measures aimed at improving the functionality, attractiveness, and long-term viability of Kano Metropolitan City.
Discussions during the session explored opportunities for cooperation in urban renewal, climate adaptation, waste management, affordable housing, renewable energy, digital connectivity, and agricultural value chains, with participants exchanging views on practical areas where knowledge, expertise, and investment could yield measurable benefits.
In attendance were the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief of Staff to the Governor, commissioners and members of the State Executive Council, heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), permanent secretaries, and other senior government officials.
As a gesture of goodwill, souvenirs were presented to Ambassador Gautier Mignot and members of the visiting delegation. The diplomats, in turn, again expressed their gratitude for the reception accorded to them throughout their stay, describing the experience as both memorable and enriching.
(Photo Credit: SARAKEE NG)
Na’ima is the A/Public Relations Officer, Office of the Deputy Governor, and can be reached via: naimanajj@gmail.com