Much more than a diplomatic visit, it was a profound gesture of partnership, trust, and mutual respect. In one of its initivities to mark a symbolic day for Europe (May 9, Europe Day), a powerful delegation of European Union (EU) diplomats and UN officials gathered in Sokoto, Northwest Nigeria on Monday, May 5, 2025, to launch €60 million worth of health and social projects. But behind the numbers and handshakes was something deeper: a sincere celebration of culture, resilience, and shared humanity.
Leading the EU delegation was Ambassador Gautier Mignot, accompanied by Ambassadors and Chargés from nine EU Member States. Their arrival in the historic city of Sokoto was purposeful and poignant.
“I came today with Ambassadors and Chargés of 9 of the EU Member States first to bring to Authorities and to the people of Sokoto a message of friendship and support,” Ambassador Mignot said, addressing a room filled with state officials, traditional leaders, and development partners.
“We know that your State, and others in the Northwest region, are facing difficult and cumulative challenges and we want, with humility, bring our modest contribution to promote solutions to face some of these challenges… Our message is also one of admiration—for the great history and culture of Sokoto, for the Caliphate founded by Usman Danfodio, and for the resilience and courage that people of Sokoto are showing in front of adversity,” Mignor continued.
The EU’s visit, part of the Europe Day celebration marking the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, coincided with the launch of three major projects under a broader €300 million regional support package.
Governor Aliyu: Sokoto will remain an open partner
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Muhammadu Idris Gobir, welcomed the projects with appreciation and resolve, pledging full cooperation with the EU and its partners. He lauded the inclusion of Sokoto in the SARAH, SUSI, and SPADS programmes and emphasized their relevance to the needs of the people.
“We will provide every necessary support to ensure the success of these projects. I’m personally interested in them because they directly affect the lives of the people, especially women, children, and the vulnerable,” the governor said.
Aliyu expressed satisfaction that the programmes align with his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery, reducing poverty, and enhancing the lives of internally displaced persons. He also stressed that Sokoto is ready to be a reliable and strategic partner for development.
The Sultan’s voice: Beyond projects, a call for mutual understanding
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who had earlier received the delegation at his palace, used the occasion to appeal for deeper understanding between development partners and local communities.
“Let us continue to work together not only in implementing projects, but in understanding our values, traditions, and what matters to our people,” he said.
The Sultan commended the EU’s commitment to respect for cultural and religious sensitivities, especially in health interventions related to reproductive health and adolescent care. He called on citizens to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and collaboration as critical tools for peace and development.
From Europe, with respect: SARAH, SUSI, and SPADS
Ambassador Mignot unveiled the three projects with detailed attention to context, saying they were designed with Sokoto, not just for Sokoto.
According to him, SARAH (Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health), to be implemented by UNICEF and UNFPA, will improve maternal and child health in Sokoto, Adamawa, and Kwara States.
“Here in Sokoto, a land enriched by the legacy of the revered Nana Asma’u Dan Fodio… we believe that good health is fundamental to individual flourishing and community well-being,” Mignot said.
The second project, SUSI, a social protection programme to be delivered by GIZ, UNICEF, and ILO, will support the expansion of the national social register, aiming to help state and federal governments reduce poverty and promote inclusion.
The third, SPADS, a durable solutions programme targeting the integration of urban IDPs, will be implemented in Sokoto, Yobe, Kano, and Adamawa with partners such as DRC, Pro-Health International, and JIPS.
“Our cooperation is already thriving,” Mignot added. “But today we take a further step… These programmes are built in partnership with federal and state governments and designed to meet the specific needs of the communities they serve.”
He reaffirmed that the EU’s commitment goes beyond funding.
“In a time when disinformation spreads on social media, we must come in person to stand and explain what the European presence means—supporting prosperity, stability, and tailored solutions… We are not just donors, we are partners.”
A new chapter in EU–Sokoto relations
The gathering did not only end with handshakes, smiles, and project briefs but also with the tone of the conversation: respectful, grounded, and human.
While Governor Aliyu promised full alignment with the project goal, the Sultan offered wise counsel on mutual respect and nd the EU Ambassador left with a powerful assurances.
And so, on a day meant to celebrate European unity, a new kind of unity took root in Sokoto—one built not on geography, but on understanding, shared goals, and a deep respect for people and place.
