UNICEF has highlighted that Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states will require $15 million to enhance the living standards of their residents.
At a news conference in Gusau on Wednesday, following a session with stakeholders at Gidanwada Model Primary School in Bungudu LGA, UNICEF’s Nigeria representative, Christian Munduate, emphasized the need for the state governors to provide matching grants to address socio-economic challenges and improve the quality of life.
Munduate expressed concern over the high rates of malnutrition among children and nursing mothers in the three states and identified open defecation as a significant health threat, potentially reversing the progress made in the fight against polio.
She stressed the importance of providing quality education, healthcare, and nutrition for children and families, urging the states to work closely with partners and stakeholders to overcome these challenges.
She also called for stronger collaboration with all relevant parties to meet the needs of children, mothers, and the broader population in the states and beyond.
Munduate shared that Northern Nigeria is facing a severe malnutrition crisis, with 5.5 million children suffering from acute malnutrition.
She also revealed that about 40 million Nigerians engage in open defecation, contributing to disease outbreaks.
UNICEF has supported 50 primary healthcare centres in collaboration with the federal government and Zamfara state, ensuring they are operational.
She assured continued technical support to maintain these facilities and meet the healthcare needs of the population.
