Soludo seeks UNICEF expanded partnership for child welfare

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By Madu Obi

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has received the UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate at the Governor's Lodge in Amawbia and solicited the organization's expanded partnership for child welfare in the state.

The governor commended UNICEF for its significant contributions to child welfare in the country.

He said: “UNICEF has a special place in my heart. Your organization has made enormous strides in improving the health and education of children across Nigeria, and we are proud to be partners in these efforts.”

He noted the pivotal role that children and youths play as the bridge to the future, emphasizing that the health and education of this demographic are critical to sustainable development.

“Anambra is a worthy partner, and we are ready to collaborate in every aspect of social protection. What drives us is results, and we are committed to building that bridge to the future very strongly,”the governor stated.

He highlighted the achievements of Anambra State in receiving a UNICEF award as the regional and national champion for its commitment to healthcare free antenatal care and delivery services, reiterating that his administration's efforts in providing free antenatal care, free delivery services, including Caesarean operations, truly free education, among others, has made significant impact.

In her speech, Munduate praised the governor's political will to invest in health, stating, “Health and nutrition are not an expenditure but an investment. We are proud to support your administration in this regard.”

She emphasized UNICEF's dedication to honoring its partnership with Anambra through various programmes that focus on providing essential supplies, service delivery, and technical support.

The meeting also addressed UNICEF's multifaceted approach in Nigeria, combining direct service delivery with policy advocacy and social protection initiatives.

Munduate stressed the importance of continued collaboration, saying, “We hope we are honoring the trust you have in us, and together we can build a brighter future for the children of Anambra.”