From HASSAN JIRGI, Maiduguri
European Union, EU, has lauded Governor Babagana Zulum’s post-conflict recovery efforts in Borno State, citing the Muna Vocational Training Institute, which trains youths, particularly those affected by the over one-decade Boko Haram insurgency.
Head of the EU mission to Borno, Ambassador Gautier Mignot gave the commendation over the week in Maiduguri at the Vocational Training Institute in Muna.
Ambassador Mignot said his team was delighted to see the magnitude of opportunity the vocational institute provides for the people of Borno State and beyond.
“I’m applauding this wonderful achievement. It’s one example of many centres built by the state government under the guidance of Governor Zulum and his vision.
“Vocational training is clear- it is something that young people in the state need, and this is something we have also experienced in Europe, especially in Germany.
“We’ve been reviewing the portfolio of projects and humanitarian assistance and, above all, developing cooperation in many areas. Borno State has been and will remain a key priority area for European cooperation in the coming years”, he said.
Also speaking, representative of the German Ambassador, Karen Jensen commended Governor Zulum for an all-inclusive empowerment which comprises women and girls.
Jesen expressed satisfaction over the number of women participating in various vocational training programs at the facility, notably in traditionally male-dominated fields like welding, saying that “It’s important for women and girls to be part of vocational education.
“I’m proud of what I’m seeing here and our cooperation work is very nice”.
On his part, representative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation, FAO, in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Koffy Dominique Kouacou commended Zulum’s leadership qualities in promoting agriculture and strengthening local economies through innovation, infrastructure development, and capacity building.
He said they would work with the state government to determine the most effective ways to support the state government’s efforts by enhancing agricultural productivity, establishing sustainable and resilient food systems, and empowering farmers and communities to become self-reliant.
