UK Govt, UNICEF Inaugurate Climate-smart Schools, Health Facilities In Kano

UNICEF, in collaboration with the Government of the United Kingdom through Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO),has inaugurated upgraded primary health care centres and schools in Kano under the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS) project.  .Read ..Full.. Article.. .

Speaking at the event on Tuesday in Wangara community in Gezawa Local Government Area , UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms Wafaa Saeed, said the facilities were designed to ensure that essential social services withstand the shocks of climate change.

She explained that the project, launched in 2024, was aimed at providing children, families and communities with safe spaces to learn, grow and receive care.

“In the past year, we worked closely with the Kano State Government, local communities and partners to bring this vision to life. Together, we upgraded 55 facilities, including 27 health centres and 28 schools,” Saeed said.

She added that the facilities were equipped with climate-smart solutions such as improved ventilation, flood-resistant structures and solar-powered systems.

“These changes mean cooler classrooms and clinics, reliable electricity, and uninterrupted services even during extreme weather.

“Mothers can give birth safely, children can receive timely treatment, and young people can study without disruption,” she said.

According to her, the CRIBS initiative is not only about infrastructure but also about creating a model for delivering climate-resilient services across Nigeria, Africa and the world.

Saeed commended the generousity of the UK Government and the commitment of local partners for making the project a reality.

“Today, as we hand over these facilities, we are not just giving keys but symbols of resilience, equity and hope.

“This project improves lives today while laying a foundation for a safer tomorrow,” she said.

The UNICEF representative urged the stakeholders to sustain the momentum by strengthening community ownership and making climate resilience central to Nigeria’s development agenda.

She also said that upgraded Primary Health Care facility at Gofaro would go along way in improving healthcare in the area.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Ali Makoda, commended the development partners for the gesture and said the state government was committed to investing in the education sector, through interventions aimed at uplifting the sector to global standards.

“This commitment includes distributing school uniforms, approving funds for classroom renovation among others,” he explained.

Speaking also, the Chairman , State Universal Basic Education Board, Alhaji Yusuf Kabir, urged parents and community members to collaborate with the government to ensure every child has access to quality education.

He said the administration of Gov. Abba Yusuf had rolled out several programmes targeted at improving both basic and post-basic education, and..  Read . .More —