UNICEF chief calls for greater investment in Nigerian children

The Executive Director of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russell, has urged Nigeria to sustain and expand investments in children, saying the country’s young population holds the key to its future prosperity and development.

Russell made the call on Friday at the end of her official visit to Nigeria, during which she visited UNICEF-supported health and education projects in Sokoto State and held meetings with government officials at the federal and state levels.

She noted that with nearly 105 million children and adolescents — about half of Nigeria’s population — the country possesses one of the world’s greatest opportunities to build a strong and productive future through strategic investments in its young people.

According to her, the resilience and determination displayed by children across the country reinforce the need for governments and partners to continue prioritising their welfare.

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

She acknowledged that although many Nigerian children still face significant challenges, government interventions are helping to improve access to essential services.

“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,” she said.

Highlighting her visit to Sokoto State, Russell said she witnessed the impact of UNICEF-supported programmes on children’s lives.

“In Sokoto, I met mothers at a UNICEF-supported health care centre 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,” she said.

The UNICEF chief said Nigeria has recorded encouraging progress in areas such as birth registration, school enrolment and social protection, but warned that these achievements could be undermined by rising economic pressures, funding shortages, insecurity, displacement and climate-related challenges.

She stressed that continued investment in nutrition, healthcare, education, clean water and child protection would be critical to safeguarding recent gains and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

“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.”

Russell commended the commitment of federal and state governments to improving children’s wellbeing and reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to working with governments, 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,” she 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 supporting the country in this effort.”

She emphasised that protecting and investing in children today would not only improve their lives but also strengthen Nigeria’s long-term social and economic development.