EU commends Zulum’s post-conflict recovery efforts

The European Union (EU) has praised Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s post-conflict recovery initiatives, highlighting the Muna Vocational Training Institute as a standout example.

The institute provides critical training opportunities for youth, particularly those affected by the over decade-long Boko Haram insurgency.

During a visit to Maiduguri, the Head of the EU Mission to Borno State, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, commended the scale and impact of the vocational training programmes.

Speaking to journalists at the Muna Vocational Training Institute, Ambassador Mignot stated, “This is a remarkable achievement and one of many facilities established under Governor Zulum’s visionary leadership. Vocational training is essential for the youth of Borno State, and its importance is underscored by similar initiatives we’ve seen in Europe, particularly in Germany.”

He added that the EU remained committed to reviewing its portfolio of projects in Borno and will continue supporting humanitarian and development efforts in the region.

“Borno State will remain a key priority for European cooperation in the years ahead,” Ambassador Mignot emphasized.

Karen Jensen, representing the German Ambassador, also commended Governor Zulum for fostering inclusive empowerment initiatives, particularly for women and girls. Jensen expressed satisfaction with the significant participation of women in vocational programs, including in traditionally male-dominated fields such as welding.

“It is vital for women and girls to actively participate in vocational education, and what I have seen here is truly inspiring,” she remarked.

Earlier, the EU delegation paid a courtesy visit to Governor Zulum at the Government House, where they reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with the Borno State Government on peace-building and recovery projects. These initiatives will be implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

During the courtesy visit, the representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Koffy Dominique Kouacou, commended Governor Zulum’s leadership in promoting agricultural innovation, infrastructure development, and capacity building.

He emphasized the FAO’s commitment to supporting the state’s efforts by enhancing agricultural productivity, establishing sustainable food systems, and empowering local farmers and communities to achieve self-reliance.