EU Hails Governor Zulum’s Leadership in Post-Conflict Recovery and Vocational Training
By Innocent Madaki
The European Union (EU) has commended the ongoing efforts of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State in driving post-conflict recovery and youth empowerment initiatives. A key highlight of these efforts is the Muna Vocational Training Institute, which provides opportunities for youths, particularly those impacted by the over-decade-long Boko Haram insurgency.
During a visit to the vocational institute in Maiduguri, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the EU Mission to Borno State, expressed admiration for the governor’s innovative approach to rebuilding lives and fostering development.
EU Applauds Transformative Vision Ambassador Mignot lauded the institute’s role in offering life-changing opportunities to residents of Borno and neighboring states.
“I am truly impressed by this remarkable achievement. It reflects Governor Zulum’s visionary leadership and the state’s commitment to post-conflict recovery,” Mignot said. He emphasized the importance of vocational training, drawing parallels to similar initiatives in Europe, particularly Germany, which have proven critical in empowering youth and driving economic growth.
The ambassador also highlighted the EU’s ongoing review of its humanitarian and developmental projects in Borno, reaffirming the region’s status as a key priority area for European cooperation in the coming years.
Women in Vocational Training: A Groundbreaking ShiftIn a significant milestone, Karen Jensen, a representative of the German Ambassador, praised the inclusivity of Zulum’s programs. She noted the increasing number of women breaking barriers by participating in training traditionally dominated by men, such as welding.
“Empowering women and girls is crucial for societal progress. Witnessing their active involvement in these programs is inspiring,” Jensen remarked.
Strengthening Agriculture and Food Systems:At a courtesy visit to the Government House, Koffy Dominique Kouacou, FAO representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, commended Governor Zulum’s leadership in boosting agriculture and local economies. He pledged FAO’s commitment to working with the state government to improve agricultural productivity, build sustainable food systems, and empower communities.
“Borno State’s strides in agricultural innovation and capacity building are commendable. We look forward to supporting these efforts to enhance food security and self-reliance,” Kouacou said.
European Union’s Commitment to Peacebuilding:The EU also reiterated its dedication to peace-building initiatives in Borno State through partnerships with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). These collaborations aim to further economic recovery, infrastructure development, and capacity-building projects.
Zulum’s Vision: A Blueprint for Post-Conflict RecoveryGovernor Zulum’s administration has been a beacon of hope in a region scarred by insurgency, leveraging vocational training, agricultural innovation, and inclusive empowerment to rebuild lives and foster resilience.
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