The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has accepted the International Literacy and Learning Leadership Award on behalf of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, during a ceremony in London, United Kingdom.
The honour, presented by Universal Learning Solutions (ULS) at the renowned Stationers’ Hall, recognised Governor Yusuf’s efforts towards strengthening education and promoting literacy development in Kano State.
In a statement by ULS Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Gary Foxcroft, the organisation said the award acknowledged the governor’s commitment to education reforms, especially his administration’s allocation of 30 per cent of the state budget to the education sector.
Foxcroft noted that the funding represents one of the largest education budget commitments in Nigeria and has enabled several reforms aimed at improving students’ learning experiences and increasing access to quality education for children across Kano.
He said the investment was driving major initiatives designed to improve literacy levels and create better educational opportunities for children in the state.
Speaking while receiving the award for the governor, Emir Sanusi praised Yusuf’s dedication to using education as a tool for improving the lives of Kano residents.
The Emir also emphasised the need for governments, communities and development partners to work together to guarantee that every child, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receives access to literacy and quality education.
He highlighted the role of the Jolly Phonics literacy programme in helping to connect Qur’anic education with formal schooling for Almajiri children, noting that many of them already have Arabic literacy skills that can serve as a foundation for learning English without losing their cultural and religious identity.
According to Foxcroft, the Emir’s comments received positive responses from education stakeholders at the event, reinforcing the importance of inclusive and research-driven literacy programmes that cater for all children.
He described the occasion as a privilege, saying ULS was honoured to host the Emir of Kano and celebrate Governor Yusuf’s contributions to education development.
Foxcroft said Governor Yusuf’s focus on education showed the impact of strong political leadership when children and learning are prioritised in governance.
He added that the Emir’s commitment to ensuring that all children, including Almajiri pupils, gain literacy skills was both inspiring and significant.
ULS further pledged to continue supporting Kano State’s education reforms through its partnership on the Jolly Phonics programme, including teacher training, improving literacy outcomes and expanding access to quality learning opportunities.
The award ceremony was part of activities marking the 20th anniversary of Jolly Phonics in Africa, celebrating two decades of efforts and collaboration aimed at advancing literacy across the continent.