Kano/Jigawa, Nigeria — September 9, 2025
In a landmark step towards safeguarding Nigeria’s future generations from the devastating impact of climate change, the United Kingdom has announced a £19 million funding commitment to strengthen climate-resilient health and education facilities in northern Nigeria.
The announcement came during the joint inauguration of 84 newly upgraded facilities under the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS) initiative. The inauguration, held in Kano and Jigawa States, brought together the UK Government, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health, state governments, UNICEF, and a coalition of local and international partners.
A First-of-Its-Kind Climate Initiative
CRIBS is an innovative model designed to shield essential public services — particularly healthcare and education — from the escalating threats of climate change. With Nigeria ranking second globally in climate-related risks to children, the stakes could not be higher. Millions of children face annual disruption from flooding, drought, and extreme heat, often losing access to healthcare and education when facilities are destroyed or rendered unusable.
Through CRIBS, 39 primary healthcare centres and 45 schools in Kano and Jigawa have been renovated with targeted adaptation measures, making them more resistant to climate shocks. From reinforced building structures to improved drainage systems and solar-powered energy, the initiative aims to ensure that essential services remain functional even in the face of extreme weather.
Partnerships Driving Change
The CRIBS initiative represents the strength of collaboration. Partners include the UK Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, state authorities, UNICEF, the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), JigSaw, Fab Inc, Crown Agents, Sextant Foundation, and the UK Lafiya Programme.
Speaking at the inauguration, Cynthia Rowe, Head of Development Cooperation at the British High Commission in Abuja, emphasized the UK’s commitment to Nigeria:
“The UK Government is proud to support the Government of Nigeria through this £19m commitment to the CRIBS programme. This partnership demonstrates how climate-resilient infrastructure can improve access to basic services for vulnerable populations. We hope this model inspires broader replication across Nigeria.”
Echoing this, UNICEF’s Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, highlighted the power of partnerships:
“This initiative is a testament to what strong partnerships can achieve. By investing in climate-smart infrastructure, we are not only protecting services but also empowering communities to safeguard their children’s future. CRIBS is a model for building resilience where it matters most — at the frontline of service delivery.”
A Milestone for Climate Action and Inclusion
The inauguration ceremonies in Kano and Jigawa included ribbon-cutting events, site visits, and media engagements, offering a firsthand look at how climate-smart infrastructure is transforming local communities. For parents, children, and healthcare workers, the facilities are more than just buildings — they are lifelines that protect education, health, and livelihoods from the ravages of climate change.
Officials underscored that the project aligns with Nigeria’s national and state-level priorities in climate action, health, and education. It also reflects the UK’s long-term commitment to strengthening resilience, reducing vulnerabilities, and supporting inclusive growth in Nigeria.
Looking Ahead
Launched in April 2024, CRIBS has already proven effective in Kano and Jigawa and is now being scaled up to six additional states: Bauchi, Enugu, Gombe, Kaduna, and Katsina. With each expansion, more vulnerable communities will gain access to safe, sustainable, and climate-ready schools and healthcare facilities.
By demonstrating a low-cost, community-owned, and scalable model, CRIBS offers Nigeria a roadmap for tackling climate vulnerability head-on while securing the future of its children.
As the global climate crisis intensifies, the message from Kano and Jigawa is clear: resilience is possible, and with strong partnerships, the most vulnerable communities do not have to be left behind.
