UNICEF, Global affairs Canada launch new health initiative in Kebbi

Gbolahan Salman Sokoto

As part of efforts to enhance access to quality healthcare and nutrition services for women, adolescents, and children, UNICEF in partnership with Global Affairs Canada (GAC) has launched a transformative health programme in Kebbi State.

The project, titled “Improving Primary Health Care Institutional and Community Capacities to Deliver High-Quality, Gender-Responsive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Nutrition Services,” officially kicked off with an inception meeting this week.

The initiative, which also spans Bauchi and Kaduna states, aims to strengthen the capacity of primary healthcare systems and community platforms to deliver inclusive, equitable, and rights-based services.

With an estimated direct reach of over 2.6 million women of reproductive age, 500,000 pregnant women, 2.4 million adolescents, and 2.1 million children under five, the programme marks a significant milestone toward achieving Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

In his remarks, Michael Juma Chief of UNICEF, Sokoto Field Office, emphasized that despite Nigeria’s growing population and economic potential, health indicators for women and children remain deeply concerning.

He said, “Recent data show that 58% of Nigerian women of reproductive age are anaemic, and 37% of children under five suffer from stunting.

“Early childbirth, limited access to SRHR information, and poor nutrition practices continue to hinder the well-being and development of vulnerable groups, especially in rural communities”

The representatives from UNICEF and the Kebbi State Government reiterated their commitment to transforming these realities through comprehensive, community-driven interventions.

Some of the core interventions under the programme include, Training policymakers and health workers on gender-responsive service planning and delivery;

“Supporting PHCs with medicines, supplies, and infrastructure for SRHR, maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH), and nutrition services”

Others include”Promoting exclusive breastfeeding, early nutrition counselling, and maternal care. Engaging community influencers and youth in behavior change campaigns to promote health rights and gender equality;

“Strengthening state and LGA-level coordination, data use, and advocacy for increased domestic investment in health.

“This programme is not just about health. It is about dignity, equity, and giving every woman, child, and adolescent a fair chance to thrive,” said a UNICEF spokesperson at the event.

“We are building systems that will empower communities, drive inclusive development, and protect the future of Nigeria.”

The inception workshop brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, health professionals, traditional leaders, and community representatives. Participants discussed strategies for implementation, coordination, and local ownership to ensure the success and sustainability of the programme.

As Kebbi and other implementing states prepare to roll out interventions, expectations are high that this initiative will reshape primary healthcare delivery, challenge harmful social norms, and improve health outcomes for millions.