UNICEF Recognizes Nigerian Government’s Efforts in Child Safety
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has praised the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu, for successfully rescuing 39 students and five teachers abducted in the Oriile Local Government Area of Oyo State.
A UNICEF delegation, led by Executive Director Catherine Russell, recently visited the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House in Abuja to present an award in recognition of these efforts.
During the meeting, Russell emphasized the importance of investing in women and children, asserting that such investments are crucial for the country’s future. She expressed UNICEF’s commitment to collaborate with the Nigerian government, thanking its leaders for their initiatives aimed at rescuing children affected by conflict.
Reflecting on her global experiences, Russell noted that conflict situations pose significant threats to children’s safety and well-being, citing issues such as displacement, violence, and kidnapping as critical areas where children require protection.
Russell commended Mrs. Tinubu for prioritizing the needs of women and children through various programs, particularly the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). She highlighted the first lady’s success in leading a birth registration campaign that has successfully registered 14 million children across the nation over a two-year period.
Praising this achievement, Russell acknowledged the essential role played by Mrs. Tinubu in advocating for the RHI and emphasized the need for ongoing investments in children’s welfare as Nigeria progresses.
In discussions, the first lady expressed her relief at the safe return of the abducted children and reaffirmed UNICEF’s vital role in supporting the government during challenging times. She remarked on the critical significance of investing in children, stressing that even a wealthy nation cannot thrive if it neglects the growth and development of its younger generation.
Mrs. Tinubu also highlighted pressing challenges, including the rising number of out-of-school children, particularly within the Almajiri community. She mentioned governmental efforts to ensure these children receive proper education and vocational training in appropriate institutions.
Other members of the UNICEF delegation included National Representative Wafa Saeed Abdellatef, Chief of Staff Ted Mary, Senior Communications Advisor Marlene Jensen, Project Director Marlin Serrano, and Executive Specialist Nabila Jamshed.
