Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The European Union has launched three significant development programs in Sokoto State: Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH), Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), and Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions.
According to the Sokoto State Government, these initiatives are not only timely but also in perfect alignment with the administration’s 9 Point Smart Innovative Agenda, particularly in healthcare, social welfare, and support for vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the launch event, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, represented by his Deputy Idris Mohammed Gobir emphasized that the SARAH program focuses on reproductive and adolescent health, reinforcing his government’s dedication to the welfare of women and children.
“In Sokoto State, we provide free medical services to women and children in all public health facilities,” he said.
“We are also undertaking extensive renovation and re-equipping of our healthcare centres to ensure essential drugs and modern equipment are readily available.”
The Governor noted that under his leadership, Sokoto State has made commendable progress in the healthcare sector.
“We have strengthened our primary healthcare delivery, improved immunization coverage, and are actively working to interrupt the persistent transmission of vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2,” he stated. “Our commitment to ensuring broader immunization coverage remains unwavering.”
Turning to the SUSI programme, the Governor highlighted its alignment with his administration’s efforts to build sustainable social protection systems.
“We have taken bold steps to support our most vulnerable citizens,” he said.
“From distributing food and support packages to IDPs and the physically challenged, to initiating skills acquisition programs for long-term self-reliance, our interventions are designed to restore dignity and hope.”
A major component of these efforts, he said, is the establishment of a dedicated Department for Internally Displaced Persons, headed by a Special Adviser.
“We have created temporary shelters and are constructing permanent IDP camps to offer more stable and humane living conditions,” he noted. “Recently, we distributed food, textiles, and other essential items to ease their hardship.”
In the area of youth empowerment, the Governor stated that thousands of young people have graduated from state-sponsored training initiatives.
“To tackle unemployment and promote self-sufficiency, we established the Ministry for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship. It is empowering our youths with practical skills to participate meaningfully in economic growth.”
He emphasized that Sokoto State is open to productive partnerships with development partners such as the European Union.
“As a government, we remain committed to partnerships that promote development and improve the quality of life for our people,” he affirmed.
“We are determined to work closely with the EU in all areas of mutual interest.”
Commending the EU, the Governor described the three initiatives as a symbol of solidarity and shared purpose. “These programs are a testament to your enduring support and a shared vision for a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive society,” he said.
He stressed the importance of continued collaboration with international partners to ensure the full realization of these programs’ objectives.
“We will do our part to provide the needed political will and institutional support for the success of these interventions,” he assured.
The Governor expressed confidence that the EU’s presence in Sokoto will bring lasting benefits to the people. “Your support is a significant contribution to our developmental journey,” he remarked.
“We look forward to strengthening this relationship.”
While thanking the EU delegation, the Governor extended a warm welcome to all guests and dignitaries present at the event. “Welcome to Sokoto State, the seat of the Caliphate. Your presence here today is deeply appreciated,” he said.
He concluded his speech with a message of hope and determination. “Together, we can build a more resilient and equitable society,” he said.
