"Bauchi, UNICEF Join Forces to Enhance Child Health, Education"

By Khalid Idris Doya

Bauchi State, Nigeria - September 2, 2025 (Series News Online)

The Bauchi State government and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have strengthened their partnership in transforming the lives of children and their mothers in the state, particularly in the areas of immunization, nutrition, water sanitation, and hygiene.

Governor Bala Mohammed expressed delight over the collaboration during a courtesy visit by the UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed Abdullatif, yesterday. "The visit is a testimony of the development partner's trust and confidence in the Bauchi PDP-administration," he said.

The Governor highlighted the achievements of the partnership, including improved education sector, reproductive and maternal healthcare services. He also commended UNICEF's construction of a N2.5 billion Oxygen Production Plant at Ali Kwara General Hospital in Azare, renovation, and equipping of 107 primary health centers, capacity building for health workers, and continued support for community initiatives.

"The state government places high premium on the health sector, as demonstrated by executing various laudable projects," Governor Bala said. These projects include the release of N872m PSCM counterpart funds and N100m Nutrition Counterpart funds to UNICEF, payment of N132m Basic Healthcare Provision Funds Counterpart funds, and construction and equipping of additional 50 Primary Health Centers (PHCs).

The Governor also mentioned the recruitment of over 1,600 health workers and 100 doctors, reintroduction of free service scheme for students studying health-related courses, and approval of a new salary structure for healthcare workers.

UNICEF Country Representative, Wafaa Saeed Abdullatif, assured that the agency is committed to focusing on Bauchi State's priorities and aligning with the state's vision. "Our core mandate is to give every child the best start in life by ensuring access to immunization, proper nutrition, quality education, protection from violence, and resilience against challenges," she said.

Abdullatif commended Governor Bala's leadership, particularly in committing resources to child nutrition funds and addressing the issue of out-of-school children. "Education is critical to reducing early child marriage, improving health outcomes, and securing a brighter future for the next generation," she emphasized.