Kano State Government has deepened strong economic and social development collaboration with French and Chinese authorities to enhance the overall well-being of the state.
Essentially, the state government has agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation with the French government under the state’s National Water Sector Reform Programme.
The renewed collaboration focuses on social-state improvement, institutional efficiency, and sustainable water management and supply in Kano.
The state Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the French Ambassador, Mr. Marc Fonbaustier, fostered the renewed agreement when the latter led an eight-member delegation to Government House, Kano, on courtesy.
Earlier, the French Ambassador said the visit was intended to review the progress of ongoing water projects and explore new areas of collaboration.
He explained that the French and Nigerian governments share a “common destiny,” affirming the mission was to reaffirm France’s commitment to partner with the state.
Ambassador Fonbaustier explained that the national reform programmes on social impact rather than hardware investments, with attention on governance, capacity development, and long-term sustainability.
He confirmed that France is already supporting key water-sector initiatives in Kano, reassuring preparedness to deepen engagement. He also identified transportation and mobility as promising areas for future collaboration.
”Our cooperation with Kano is solid, and today’s discussions opened new opportunities for expanded partnership,” he said.
Governor Yusuf applauded the French Government for its sustained support and reiterated his commitment to ensuring reliable, accessible, and socially responsive water services for the people of Kano.
He assured that Kano will continue to align with national reform objectives by strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and improving sector performance.
Similarly, Governor Yusuf received the Deputy Chief of Mission of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Hon. Zhou Hongyou, who led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Government House, Kano.
Hon. Zhou Hongyou said his visit reflects China’s recognition of Kano as one of the most important commercial centres in Nigeria and the entire African continent.
He commended the governor’s commitment to prioritising the security and welfare of the people.
He noted that relations between Nigeria and China have remained strong and mutually beneficial for more than 60 years, supported by the active presence of over 100 Chinese companies operating across Nigeria. He added that Kano remains a focal point for future investment expansion.
Governor Yusuf welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding friendship with Nigeria.
He acknowledged the contributions of Chinese investors to multiple sectors, including construction, commerce, technology, and industrial development.
The governor described Kano as a major economic powerhouse in northern Nigeria and across Africa.
He stressed that his administration places top priority on security, inclusive governance, and the creation of a conducive environment for international investment. The governor reaffirmed commitment to strengthening ties with the Chinese government and private sector.
He specifically expressed interest in communication, business growth, and social cooperation, which the governor said remain central pillars of his administration’s development agenda.
He emphasised that the people remain at the heart of policy formulation and that the state will continue to build partnerships that deliver real benefits to communities.
