The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Monday urged the European Union to increase support for Kano State and Nigeria in the areas of security, healthcare and education as he received the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, at his palace in Kano.
The emir made the appeal during a visit by the ambassador and his delegation, which was marked by a mini durbar organised in their honour.
Speaking during the visit, Sanusi stressed the need for stronger international partnerships to address security challenges facing the country, particularly in the North-West.
According to him, increased support for security initiatives would help restore peace and stability in communities affected by insecurity.
The emir also highlighted the importance of healthcare and education, especially girl-child education, describing the sectors as critical to development.
He noted that Kano had historically played a major role in regional trade and cultural preservation, tracing its prominence to the era of trans-Saharan commerce.
Sanusi further recalled that the Kano Durbar was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024, adding that the cultural display remained one of the emirate’s traditions for receiving distinguished visitors.
Earlier, Mignot said the EU delegation was in Kano to strengthen cooperation with Northern Nigeria in key development areas.
“The EU remains committed to supporting programmes aimed at improving education, healthcare delivery and security across the region,” he said.
The ambassador also commended Kano’s cultural heritage and thanked the emirate for the reception accorded to him and members of his delegation.
A mini durbar featuring horse riders and other cultural displays was held in honour of the visiting delegation.
Palace officials, community leaders and other dignitaries attended the ceremony.
