Northeastern Nigeria, received a significant boost for its social protection systems with the launch of a €36.33 million initiative aimed at enhancing resilience and economic stability in Borno and Adamawa States.
The funding, announced in a press release by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Thursday, is co-financed by the European Union and the German government.
It is part of the Supporting Sustainable Social Protection, Participation, and Economic Resilience in Northeast Nigeria programme.
This initiative aims to strengthen social protection systems, foster economic resilience, and promote gender equality and social inclusion, all while supporting vulnerable populations and increasing social participation across the region.
Dr. Karin Jansen, representing the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), emphasized the significance of the programme, stating, “This initiative is a testament to the enduring partnership between the Government of Borno State, BMZ, and the EU, and to our shared commitment to improving the lives of the people in Northeast Nigeria with a strong focus on gender equality and social inclusion.”
The announcement follows a high-level mission to Borno and Adamawa states, which included representatives from the EU, BMZ, FAO, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
Led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, the mission aimed to strengthen partnerships and explore sustainable development opportunities in the region.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to Northeastern Nigeria, underscoring that the region will remain a priority for both EU development cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
New development programmes, including those co-funded by EU member states, are set to launch this year to aid in the region’s recovery and long-term stability.
FAO Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Koffy Dominique Kouacou, highlighted the vital role of agricultural systems in the region’s recovery, stating, “The collaboration we envision is inclusive, addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations while paving the way for long-term growth and prosperity.”
Kouacou further noted that strengthening agricultural systems would contribute to feeding communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities for the future.
Meetings with the Governors of Borno and Adamawa underscored the importance of fostering an environment conducive to these transformative initiatives. Both governors reaffirmed their commitment to supporting sustainable development efforts aimed at fostering peace and prosperity in the region.
