By Usman Usman Garba
Kano State Government and the Government of France have deepened their collaboration under the National Water Sector Reform Programme, aimed at improving social welfare, institutional efficiency, and sustainable water management.
This was disclosed on Wednesday in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
The statement followed a visit by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Marc Fonbaustier, who led an eight-member delegation to Government House, Kano, to review ongoing water projects and discuss future areas of cooperation.
Speaking during the visit, Ambassador Fonbaustier said the size and expertise of his team reflected the importance France attaches to Kano and the broader northern region.
“France and Nigeria share a common destiny. Our mission is to reaffirm France’s commitment to supporting Kano’s development agenda,” he said.
The ambassador explained that the reform programme prioritizes social impact over hardware investments, focusing on governance, capacity development, and long-term sustainability.
He confirmed that France is already supporting key water-sector initiatives in the state and is prepared to deepen its engagement.
“Our cooperation with Kano is solid, and today’s discussions opened new opportunities for expanded partnership,” Fonbaustier added.
He also highlighted transportation and mobility as potential areas for future collaboration.
Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf thanked the French Government for its sustained support and reiterated his commitment to delivering reliable, accessible, and socially responsive water services to Kano residents.
“We will continue aligning with national reform objectives by strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and improving sector performance,” he said.
The visit underscores Kano State’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships in the water sector and enhance the quality of services for its population.