The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for increased investment in children, saying Nigeria’s future depends on decisions made today to improve their well-being, education, healthcare and protection.
According to Sussan Akila, Communication Specialist, UNICEF Nigeria in a Statement, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell while speaking on the need to prioritise children in national development, urged for strategic investments in child-focused services which would not only improve the lives of millions of Nigerian children but also strengthen the country’s long-term economic growth.
“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 organisation stressed that sustained investment in essential social services, including healthcare, education, nutrition and child protection, remains critical to ensuring every Nigerian child has the opportunity to survive, learn and thrive.
UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Government, development partners and other stakeholders to advance policies and programmes that improve outcomes for children across the country.
The agency noted that prioritising children is fundamental to achieving sustainable development and building a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.
