By Abigail Philip David
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding educational opportunities for its youth by announcing plans to sponsor 1,002 students for overseas studies in 2025. This follows the successful sponsorship of 1,001 students last year.
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the European Union (EU) Delegation ahead of the 2025 Study in Europe Fair in Kano.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, Gwarzo described the initiative as a crucial step toward equipping Kano’s youth with world-class education, enabling them to participate in the global knowledge economy.
Government’s Commitment to Education
Gwarzo emphasized that education remains a top priority for the Kano State Government, as reflected in its highest budgetary allocation for the sector in the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years. The state has also declared a State of Emergency in Education to ensure quality learning and modern skill acquisition for young people.
He expressed gratitude to the EU for its ongoing support, describing the Study in Europe Fair as a significant platform for international collaboration in education.
“As a state with a rich history in trade, culture, and education, Kano stands to benefit immensely from global partnerships like this. We anticipate a successful event that will empower our youth, boost educational exchanges, and contribute to Kano’s economic and social development,” Gwarzo stated.
European Union’s Role in Strengthening Educational Ties
Speaking earlier, Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said the EU delegation was in Kano for the Study in Europe Fair, scheduled for February 27, 2025.
He noted that the event, which has previously been hosted in Kano, provides a platform for European universities to engage with Nigerian scholars and students, offering information on study programs and opportunities in Europe.
“We hope to establish new contacts, partnerships, and exchange programs, allowing Nigerian students to study in Europe while also encouraging European scholars to visit Kano,” Mignot stated.
He added that around 20 university representatives were present for the event, many visiting Kano for the first time.
The EU delegation included:
- Amb. Michal Cygan – Polish Embassy to Nigeria
- Jurgew Bartelink – Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria
- Leila Ben Mathieu – Head of Human Development, EU Delegation to Nigeria
- Kristof Korosi – Deputy Ambassador of Hungary to Nigeria
The initiative is expected to strengthen people-to-people connections and foster long-term educational collaborations between Kano and European institutions.
