Yusuf seeks deeper Kano-France partnership at French National Day celebration

Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State governor, has sought stronger collaboration between Kano State and France in agriculture, renewable energy, water resources, environmental protection and education as part of efforts to attract investment and accelerate sustainable development.

The governor made the call during an interactive session held at the French Embassy in Abuja to commemorate France’s National Day, where he led a delegation of senior Kano State government officials.

A statement issued on Tuesday by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson, said Yusuf congratulated the French government and its people on the country’s National Day and reaffirmed Kano State’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation with France.

The governor also congratulated Marc Fonbaustier, France’s ambassador to Nigeria, on behalf of the government and people of Kano State, wishing France continued peace, prosperity and progress.

Yusuf described the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and France as a partnership that has continued to foster development, strengthen diplomatic ties and promote mutual understanding between both countries.

He said Kano State is ready to deepen engagement with international development partners to attract investments, improve public services and create more opportunities for residents.

According to him, enhanced cooperation between Kano State and France would facilitate innovation, technology transfer and sustainable development across critical sectors of the state’s economy.

The governor expressed optimism that closer ties with France would contribute to improving agricultural productivity, expanding access to renewable energy, protecting the environment and strengthening educational development in Kano State.

France and Nigeria have maintained diplomatic and economic relations for decades, with cooperation spanning security, trade, education, culture and infrastructure. In recent years, sub-national governments have increasingly sought partnerships with foreign governments and development agencies to complement federal initiatives and accelerate local development.

Yusuf said his administration remains committed to building productive international partnerships capable of delivering tangible socio-economic benefits to the people of Kano State.