By Rakiya AMuhammad
Sokoto State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, have bolstered efforts to tackle child malnutrition, polio, and barriers to birth registration.
During a meeting with UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate, in Sokoto, State Governor Ahmad Aliyu expressed his commitment to addressing the pressing concerns.
“Severe acute malnutrition is a crisis we must confront, and through this partnership with UNICEF, we are taking bold steps to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” he stated.
He confirmed the state’s commitment to the Child Nutrition Fund for nutrition supplies and commodities.
Thanks to the state government’s contribution and a match from UNICEF, malnourished children across Sokoto State can receive preventative nutrition supplies.
“This contribution reflects our dedication to safeguarding the future of Sokoto’s children,” remarked the governor.
Ms. Munduate reaffirmed UNICEF’s support for addressing the issues and commended the governor’s dedication and leadership.
“UNICEF is proud to stand alongside Sokoto State in this critical fight against malnutrition,” she stated.
“By combining our resources and efforts, we can significantly improve the lives of children who need it most,” he stated.
The UNICEF Representative also met with the Governor’s wife, Hajiya Fatima Ahmad Aliyu, to discuss strengthening birth registration and polio eradication efforts.
“Having a certificate when you are born not only gives you the right to have official names, but it can also help households, families, and children to have better access to social services such as health, nutrition, and education,” highlighted Ms. Munduate.
“We recognize your unique role as the governor’s wife.”
The Sokoto First Lady commended UNICEF for its efforts to ensure the well-being of children.
She expressed her willingness to collaborate with UNICEF to boost efforts to ensure the vaccination of all eligible children against polio.
The governor’s wife also stated readiness to rally relevant groups to generate sustained demand for birth registration.
“I want to assure you that I am 100% ready to give UNICEF the maximum support needed to achieve the desired success,” she declared.