By Jude Michael
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, Monday, said that his government was eager to expand existing the partnership with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Soludo stated this when he received the UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate, at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia.
During the visit, the Governor expressed his enthusiasm for collaborative efforts with the organization, with the aim of enhancing the health and well-being of children and youth in the state.
Soludo 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.
‘We commend UNICEF for its significant contributions to child welfare in the country. Youth and children play a pivotal role as the bridge to the future. The health and education of this demographic are critical to sustainable development.
‘We are eager to expand the partnership with UNICEF. 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.’
Soludo highlighted the achievements of Anambra State in receiving a UNICEF award as the regional and national champion for commitment to healthcare, free antenatal care and delivery services.
He reiterated his administration’s efforts in providing free antenatal care, free delivery services to include Caesarean operations, truly free education, among others, noting that they had made significant impacts.
Munduate earlier praised what he described as the Governor’s political will to invest in health, stating that: ‘Health and nutrition are not an expenditure but an investment. We are proud to support your administration in this regard.
‘We hope we are honoring the trust you have in us, and together we can build a brighter future for the children of Anambra.’
