Abuja, FCT – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced its dedication to backing the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria with a substantial investment of $270 million. This commitment was conveyed by the Country Representative of UNICEF, Christian Mundate, during a meeting with the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, in Abuja NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
Christian Mundate, accompanied by Eduardo Celades, Chief of Health & HIV/AIDS at UNICEF, assured Dr. Betta Edu of their intention to provide financial support as well as technical assistance to bolster the Ministry’s capabilities. The collaboration aims to enhance humanitarian response and poverty alleviation efforts in Nigeria.
In their discussion, UNICEF affirmed their plan to facilitate the development of a Humanitarian Response Protocol for Nigeria, which will guide all humanitarian actors and promote effective coordination. The establishment of a National Humanitarian Situation Room or Humanitarian Emergency Operation Centre (H-EOC) was also highlighted, with the goal of monitoring, mitigating, and preventing humanitarian crises while simultaneously building resilience within the system.
In response, Dr. Betta Edu expressed her appreciation for UNICEF’s commitment and assistance in achieving the Federal Government’s ambitious goals under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership. These objectives include the phased lifting of 133 million impoverished Nigerians out of poverty, with special attention given to the 71 million who live on less than $1.95 a day. Dr. Edu emphasized the urgency of implementing the Renewed Hope agenda to bring relief to those in need.
“We recognize the urgency of the situation and the importance of swift action. The Nigerian populace is eagerly anticipating the full implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. As such, we are ready to work tirelessly to roll out effective social programs that will alleviate the burdens faced by the less privileged,” stated Dr. Edu.
She assured UNICEF of the Ministry’s dedication to transparency and accountability throughout all processes and engagements. Dr. Edu concluded by emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with UNICEF and other partners until the government’s poverty alleviation targets are successfully met.