Through a number of focused interventions, the European Union, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the Sokoto State Government have reiterated their shared commitment to enhancing the lives of women, children, and adolescents.
The EU’s commitment to supporting Sokoto, especially in the health sector, was emphasized by EU Ambassador to Nigeria Gautier Mignot during a working visit to several health and education facilities in the state on Tuesday.
We have started providing assistance through the recently formed SARA project for women and adolescent health since we are aware of the significant healthcare issues that Sokoto State is facing.
Additionally, we are offering Quranic and nomadic schools that incorporate formal education, as well as humanitarian assistance centered on nutrition and primary healthcare support,” Mignot said.
As a “powerful accelerator for development and prosperity,” Mignot emphasized the value of education for girls.
“Giving young girls educational opportunities is vital for the future prosperity of their communities,” he said, adding that nations with educated and empowered women typically have better economic outcomes.
By directing substantial resources toward the region’s nutritional and medical needs, the EU’s humanitarian arm, ECHO, is also playing a vital role.
“Every year, we provide over €100 million in humanitarian aid to Nigeria in collaboration with EU member states, with a significant amount going to the Northwest,” the Ambassador disclosed.
UNICEF Country representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, echoed similar sentiments, applauding progress in primary healthcare coverage while stressing the urgent need for further expansion.
“Although improvements have been made, the demand remains overwhelming.
“Even the best-performing primary health centres are overstretched, and more functional facilities are needed per ward,” she said.
In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Health, Faruk Wurno, reaffirmed the state’s readiness to meet these challenges.
Wurno disclosed that the government has already awarded contracts for the revitalisation of 116 primary healthcare centres, including the heavily burdened facility visited during the tour.
He stated, “This centre will be expanded and equipped with essential amenities, including solar power, to provide a conducive environment for both healthcare delivery and learning.
“Our goal is to reduce maternal and infant mortality by addressing key health indicators through the SARA project.”
The commissioner also pledged transparency and accountability in implementing the three projects launched recently, ensuring they are effectively executed to serve the people of Sokoto
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