The Executive Director of UNICEF, Catherine Russell, has called for sustained investment in Nigerian children, describing them as the country’s greatest opportunity for future growth, innovation and resilience.
Russell made the call at the end of her official mission to Nigeria on Friday, saying the country’s nearly 105 million children and adolescents, representing about half of its population, remain its most valuable asset despite mounting economic challenges.
She noted that although rising inflation, global funding constraints, insecurity, displacement and climate-related shocks continue to affect vulnerable families.
She added that Nigeria has made notable progress in birth registration, social protection and school enrolment through government-led interventions.
“Everywhere I went in Nigeria, I saw the strength, ambition and potential of children and young people despite continued challenges.
“There is no denying that many children face challenges, but I am encouraged to see the Government-led response to provide critical services for children,” she said.
During her visit, the UNICEF chief toured Sokoto State, where she met mothers at a UNICEF-supported healthcare centre treating children suffering from malnutrition and interacted with boys and girls benefiting from digital learning programmes designed to provide them with a second chance at education.
She stressed that investments in healthcare, nutrition, education, safe water and child protection remain critical, warning that recent gains could be reversed without sustained funding and stronger partnerships.
According to her, the first years of a child’s life are crucial to long-term development, noting that access to good nutrition, quality healthcare, early learning and protection provides the foundation for stronger communities and a more prosperous economy.
Russell commended the commitment of federal and state governments to improving child welfare and reaffirmed UNICEF’s readiness to continue working with government, development partners and the private sector to expand opportunities for every Nigerian child.
“Nigeria’s future will be shaped by the choices made for children today,” she said, adding that the country has the potential to become a model for investment in child-focused services and inclusive economic growth.