UNICEF Chief urges sustained investment in Nigerian children

By Anan Geolengs

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell has concluded a visit to Nigeria with a call for sustained investment in children, describing them as the country’s greatest opportunity for growth and resilience.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by Sussan Akila,
Communication and Advocacy Specialist| Communications, Advocacy and Partnerships
United Nations Children’s Fund.

Russell, who visited Sokoto during the mission, said Nigeria’s nearly 105 million children and adolescents — about half of the population — represent a powerful engine for human capital, innovation and development.

“Everywhere I went in Nigeria, I saw the strength, ambition and potential of children and young people despite continued challenges,” Russell said in a statement on Wednesday.

“There is no denying that many children face challenges, but I am encouraged to see the Government-led response to provide critical services for children. In Sokoto, I met mothers at a UNICEF-supported health care center where children were being treated for malnutrition, helping them survive. I also met girls and boys who are getting a second chance in education through digital learning.”

The UNICEF chief noted that progress has been made in areas such as birth registration, social protection and school enrolment.

She, however, warned that global economic pressures, including the impact of the Middle East crisis, funding constraints and other shocks, are threatening to reverse hard-won gains.

“In some communities, children and families also face insecurity, displacement and climate-related shocks,” she said.

Russell stressed that rising prices are further straining vulnerable households, making investment in children more urgent.

“The first years of a child’s life are a critical window for a child,” she said. “Good nutrition, healthcare, early learning, and protection help children develop to their full potential, building the foundation for stronger communities and a prosperous economy.”

The Executive Director welcomed the commitment of government counterparts at federal and state levels and pledged UNICEF’s continued support to work with all partners, including the private sector.

“Nigeria’s future will be shaped by the choices made for children today,” Russell said. “Nigeria can be a positive example for shaping new models for investment in services and economic growth that benefits all children. UNICEF is committed to support the country on this quest.”

UNICEF said it will continue to support efforts to strengthen health, nutrition, education, safe water and protection services to ensure that vulnerable children are not left behind.