‎The British High Commission has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s long-term commitment to development in northern Nigeria, following the conclusion of high-level engagements in Kano and Jigawa states by the Head of Development Cooperation, Cynthia Rowe.

‎The UK mission, in a statement on Thursday, said meetings with governors, officials and civil society leaders reflected the UK’s modern development approach through genuine partnership with Nigeria.

‎“This approach prioritises state-led ownership and sustainable development, delivering lasting impact through stronger systems, partnerships, investment and shared accountability,” the statement said.

‎The mission said the visit to Kano recognised progress in climate finance, health reforms, and private-sector investment. It added that these gains were supported through UK technical assistance and institutional partnerships.

‎In Jigawa, Ms Rowe met with Governor Umar Namadi and the heads of key ministries, departments, and agencies.

‎The meeting celebrated over 25 years of UK-Jigawa partnership at Nigeria’s subnational level. The discussions focused on health reforms, agriculture, governance and future technical cooperation.

‎“Since 2022, Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria has supported Kano, Kaduna and Jigawa education systems. Its RANA+ learning packages have reached 1.4 million pupils across the three states, alongside wider system strengthening,” the mission stated.

‎Ms Rowe said the visits reinforced confidence in what strong partnerships can achieve.

‎“For more than 25 years, we have worked alongside state governments, communities and civil society to strengthen health systems. We have improved learning outcomes, supported farmers, and helped states attract the investment needed to thrive,” she said.

‎She said the partnership focused on lasting change, mutual respect and shared ambition for Nigeria’s development.