Ibrahim Ibrahim
The Jigawa State Government has signed a three-year Work Plan (2025-2027) with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to strengthen its commitment to healthcare, education, child protection, and social policy.
While speaking during the signing of the agreement, held at Government House, Governor Malam Umar Namadi described it as a milestone in Jigawa’s development journey.
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According to him “UNICEF has been our most consistent development partner, supporting our efforts for over 30 years. This new work plan is a continuation of that fruitful collaboration to improve the lives of our children and women”
He explained that focus areas of the agreement including, Healthcare & Nutrition, Expanding maternal and child healthcare, vaccination programs, and nutrition support, Education and Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH) and Child Protection & Social Policy.
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UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office Kano Mr. Rahama Mohammed Farah, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stressing the need for sustained investment from the Jigawa State Government.
“This plan is not just an agreement; it is a roadmap for a brighter future for Jigawa’s children. However, with global donor funding in decline, the state government must increase its financial commitment to ensure sustainability,” Farah stated.
Farah urged Jigawa authorities to prioritize domestic funding for critical sectors, warning that reliance on external resources alone may not be sufficient to sustain the ambitious goals set under the agreement.
UNICEF however advised the Jigawa State government to effectively utilize the child multiple deprivation data in the State at the local government level to enhance existing social protection interventions and combat child poverty.
Mr. Farah reiterated UNICEF’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Government of Jigawa State in realizing the rights of every child.