By Rakiya A. Muhammad
The European Union and its partners have intensified efforts to enhance social protection for children and vulnerable families in Sokoto through the ‘Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI)’ initiative.
With $14 million in EU funding, SUSI will strengthen social protection policy and budgeting, and establish a social registry in Sokoto for vulnerable children and families. The registry will prioritise those without birth registration or NIN, out-of-school children, families affected by malnutrition, and those with limited access to primary health care.
This came to light during a visit to Sokoto State by a delegation from the EU, along with UNICEF, UNFPA, ILO, and partners such as Plan International Nigeria, Action Against Hunger Nigeria (ACF Nigeria), CARE, and the Danish Refugee Council (DRC).
As part of the SUSI programme, the state government and its partners presented a new tool to capture all dimensions of poverty in the National Social Register.
“Our administration is committed to practical solutions that uplift our people—consistent with the Renewed Hope Agenda and our state priorities,” asserted Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, Governor of Sokoto State. Gov Aliyu at a meeting with the delegation.
“We will continue to prioritise the well-being of women, children, and vulnerable families and to work with partners to sustain results.”
Massimo De Luca, EU Head of Cooperation, expressed commitment to supporting Sokoto State in ensuring inclusive development for all.
“This visit has shown how critical it is to invest in systems that protect and empower people—especially children and young people,” remarked Massimo De Luca.
The UNICEF Deputy Representative Program, Rownak Khan, highlighted UNICEF’s mandate to support the realisation of the rights and well-being of every child—and to support women, families, and communities who care for and guide them.
“In Sokoto, that means strengthening education, primary health care, and adolescent services through the EU-supported programme for health and education and helping families withstand shocks through social protection so that children not only survive but thrive.”
