UNICEF restates commitment to child survival in Nigeria
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
UNICEF says it remains committed to working alongside Federal and Sokoto State Governments, communities, other development partners, and young people to help ensure that every child can survive, thrive, learn, and reach their full potential.
The UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell,Executive Director, made the commitment on Friday in Sokoto when she addressed newsmen shortly after she paid a courtesy call on Gov. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir.
Russell said she was impressed with what the state government has done so far on chid survival.
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She said, “My visit to Sokoto has been truly inspiring. At both the Rumbukawa Primary Health Centre and the Digital Village,
“I have seen what is possible when leadership, partnership and community commitment come together.
“I met with dedicated health workers, teachers and local officials and mothers determined to give their children the best possible start in life.
“And I met children and young people whose curiosity, creativity and ambition remind us why investing in them is the wisest investment in the future.
“Before coming to Sokoto, I had the privilege of meeting with His Excellency the Vice President, Her Excellency, the First Lady, representatives of the diplomatic community, private sector leaders, and many young Nigerians.
“One message came through consistently: Nigeria’s children face significant challenges. But those challenges do not define Nigeria’s future. What defines that future is the extraordinary talent, resilience, and innovation of its people.
“Today in Sokoto, I have seen that determination translated into action.”
According to Russell, the choices made today for children will shape Nigeria for decades to come.
She said, “Every child who is healthy, learning and protected strengthens not only their own future, but the future of their community, this state, and the nation.
“UNICEF is proud to be a trusted partner to further the lives of children.”
Our Correspondent also reports that Russell was accompanied by Tad Milly, Chief of Staff, UNICEF, Wafau Saeed, UNICEF Representative, Nigeria, Malene Jensen, Manilla Jamshed,. Michael Juma, Chief of Sokoto Field Office and Isa Ibrahim, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF, Sokoto Field Office.
