The Sokoto State Government has announced a significant partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) aimed at addressing malnutrition and polio within the state. This collaboration was solidified during a recent visit by UNICEF’s country representative in Nigeria, Christian Munduate.
During her visit, Munduate met with Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the First Lady of Sokoto State, Fatima Aliyu, to discuss and formalize the partnership. The agreement includes the establishment of a Child Nutrition Fund, which will be used to purchase essential nutrition supplies for the state’s children.
Governor Aliyu highlighted the state’s commitment, stating, “Our contribution to the Child Nutrition Fund demonstrates our dedication to addressing severe acute malnutrition. This partnership with UNICEF represents a bold step towards safeguarding the future of Sokoto’s children.”
UNICEF’s communication specialist, Susan Akila, confirmed the state’s contribution and noted that UNICEF will match this funding to provide lifesaving nutrition commodities to children in need across Sokoto State. Munduate praised Governor Aliyu’s leadership and commitment to this critical issue, emphasizing the potential for a substantial impact through this combined effort.
Additionally, both the Governor and the First Lady discussed the ongoing polio outbreak in the region. The First Lady expressed her full support for the vaccination campaign and pledged to engage religious leaders and women’s groups to promote birth registration and vaccination efforts.
Munduate assured that UNICEF will continue to support Sokoto State in these vital health initiatives, working together to combat malnutrition and polio effectively.