Sokoto partners UNICEF to tackle malnutrition, polio
The Sokoto State Government, in collaboration with the United Children Education Fund, has concluded plans to work together in order to pave the way for impactful initiatives to protect the health and well-being of the children in the state.
This was part of the agreement reached during the visit of the UNICEF country representative in Nigeria, Christian Munduate, when she paid a working visit to the state earlier in the week.
During her visit meetings with key stakeholders, including Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the First Lady of the state, Fatima Aliyu, the parties agreed to have the way for impactful initiatives to protect the health and well-being of children.
In a statement made available to our correspondent by the agency on Saturday, UNICEF’s communication specialist, Susan Akila, said the governor announced the state’s contribution to the Child Nutrition Fund.
This fund will be dedicated to the procurement of nutrition supplies/commodities.
Aliyu emphasized the state’s commitment, stating: “This contribution reflects our dedication to safeguarding the future of Sokoto’s children. 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.”
Responding, the UNICEF Representative commended the governor’s leadership and commitment, adding, “UNICEF is proud to stand alongside Sokoto State in this critical fight against malnutrition. By combining our resources and efforts, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children who need it the most.”
She assured all that UNICEF would match the state’s contribution, which would help deliver preventive lifesaving nutrition commodities to malnourished children across Sokoto State.
Munduate also called upon the First Lady, and both leaders agreed that more work is needed to end the current polio outbreak in the region.
The statement further said the First Lady reaffirmed her office’s full support, expressing her readiness and commitment to collaborate with UNICEF in intensifying efforts to ensure that every child is vaccinated against the debilitating disease.
Mrs Aliyu also reiterated her commitment and resolve to mobilize religious leaders and women groups to generate sustained demand for birth registration.
