Concluding her visit to Nigeria, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said the country’s young population could become a powerful driver of growth if backed by sustained investment….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Nigeria’s progress in child welfare must be protected through sustained investment despite mounting economic and global pressures, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said at the conclusion of her official visit to the country, highlighting both recent achievements and the challenges that remain.
Russell said Nigeria, home to nearly 105 million children and adolescents representing about half of its population, has one of the world’s greatest opportunities to transform its young population into a driving force for innovation, resilience and economic growth.
“Everywhere I went in Nigeria, I saw the strength, ambition and potential of children and young people despite continued challenges,” Russell said.
“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.”
During her visit, Russell noted that Nigeria has recorded progress in areas including birth registration, social protection and school enrolment, demonstrating what can be achieved through sustained investment in children.
However, she warned that global economic pressures, including the impact of the Middle East crisis, funding constraints and other external shocks, are threatening to undermine these hard-won gains.
Many communities also continue to face insecurity, displacement and climate-related shocks, placing additional strain on vulnerable children and their families.
UNICEF said efforts are continuing to strengthen healthcare, nutrition, education, access to safe water and child protection services, but stressed that sustained investment and stronger partnerships will be essential to ensure vulnerable children are not left behind.
“The first years of a child’s life are a critical window for a child,” Russell 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.”
She welcomed the commitment shown by federal and state governments and reaffirmed UNICEF’s readiness to work with public institutions, development partners and the private sector to expand opportunities for children across the country.
“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.”
The visit comes as Nigeria seeks to safeguard recent gains in child development while addressing the combined pressures of inflation, funding shortages, humanitarian challenges and climate-related risks that continue to affect millions of children nationwide.
