The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF Nigeria, has officially announced the appointment of Ms. Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef as its new Country Representative, bringing over two decades of global humanitarian and development experience to one of the agency’s largest country programs.
Wafaa succeeds her tenure in Somalia, where she led UNICEF’s efforts in advancing child rights and delivering lifesaving services amid one of the world’s most complex humanitarian crises.
Her appointment to Nigeria signals a renewed focus on strategic leadership and program delivery to improve the lives of millions of children nationwide.
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UNICEF described her appointment as a timely step in strengthening its mission in Nigeria, citing her proven leadership and experience navigating humanitarian emergencies and development challenges.
Wafaa’s career with the United Nations spans several senior roles within UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
She has served in a range of countries including Sudan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Syria, and Ethiopia, and has also held global-level positions in OCHA’s offices in New York and Geneva.
Her early work in Sudan involved key collaborations with the private sector, academic institutions, and non-governmental organisations, focusing on displaced communities and environmental sustainability.
Wafaa holds multiple academic qualifications, including a Master of Architecture from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, a Master of Science in Physical Planning from the University of Khartoum, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
Welcoming her to the role, UNICEF Nigeria expressed confidence that her experience and dedication will help accelerate efforts to achieve child rights and improve outcomes in health, education, nutrition, and protection for Nigerian children.
“Her leadership comes at a critical time as UNICEF and its partners continue to respond to the evolving needs of children and families across Nigeria,” the agency noted in its statement.
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UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories, including Nigeria, to protect and promote the rights of every child. In partnership with the government, civil society, and international agencies.
UNICEF focuses on delivering impactful programs in health, nutrition, education, water and sanitation, and child protection.