From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russell, has concluded a visit to Nigeria, highlighting the immense potential of the country’s children and calling for sustained investment to safeguard recent development gains amid mounting global and regional economic pressures.
In a statement issued on Friday, Susan Akila, Communication and Advocacy Specialist, Communications, Advocacy and Partnerships, UNICEF, said Nigeria, with nearly 105 million children and adolescents, representing about half of its population, has one of the world’s greatest opportunities to transform its youthful population into a driving force for human capital development, innovation and resilience.
The statement noted that rising living costs are placing additional pressure on vulnerable households, making investment in children more urgent than ever.
Reflecting on her visit, Russell said she was inspired by the resilience and determination of Nigerian children despite the challenges they face.
“Everywhere I went in Nigeria, I saw the strength, ambition and potential of children and young people despite continued challenges.
“There is no denying that many children face difficulties, but I am encouraged by the government-led efforts to provide critical services for children.”Russell said.
She recalled her visit to Sokoto, where she met mothers at a UNICEF-supported primary healthcare centre providing life-saving treatment for children suffering from malnutrition.
“In Sokoto, I met mothers at a UNICEF-supported healthcare centre where children were receiving treatment for malnutrition, helping them survive.
“I also met girls and boys who are getting a second chance at education through digital learning,” she said.
The statement acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in key areas, including birth registration, social protection and school enrolment, describing these achievements as evidence of what can be accomplished when children are placed at the centre of national development.
However, it warned that global economic pressures, including the effects of the Middle East crisis, funding constraints and other external shocks, are threatening to undermine these gains. It also noted that insecurity, displacement and climate-related shocks continue to affect children and families in several communities.
According to UNICEF, ongoing efforts are focused on strengthening healthcare, nutrition, education, access to safe water and child protection services, stressing that sustained investment and stronger partnerships are essential to ensure that vulnerable children are not left behind.
Russell emphasized the importance of investing in early childhood development.
“The first years of a child’s life are a critical window. Good nutrition, healthcare, early learning and protection enable children to reach their full potential, laying the foundation for stronger communities and a more prosperous economy,” she said.
The UNICEF Executive Director also welcomed the commitment demonstrated by federal and state governments and reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to continue working with government, development partners and the private sector to expand opportunities for every Nigerian child.
“Nigeria’s future will be shaped by the choices made for children today. The country can become a global example of how investment in essential services and inclusive economic growth can improve the lives of all children.
“UNICEF remains committed to supporting Nigeria in achieving this vision,” Russell added.
