The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has vowed to sustain its support for the Nigerian government and communities in the North East region, despite facing significant funding hitches following the recent cessation of USAID funding.
Speaking on Monday in Maiduguri during a week-long assessment visit to Borno State, UNICEF’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Mr Gilles Fagninou, said the organisation is dedicated to maintaining its support levels to victims of the Boko Haram conflict, especially women and children.
Addressing the “uncertainty” of funding, the director assured that UNICEF will strive to secure the minimum resources necessary to address urgent needs.
According to him, the organisation is engaged in ongoing discussions with the government to bridge funding gaps, including through increased domestic resource mobilisation.
“We are committed to continuing our support, despite the significant funding challenges facing the development sector globally,” the director stated.
“While funding is inherently uncertain, we strive to secure the minimum resources needed to respond to the urgent needs on the ground. This challenge isn’t unique to this moment; we’ve faced similar situations in the past.
“We are actively engaging with the government, and they are taking steps to bridge the funding gaps. These financial constraints require us to implement measures across West and Central Africa,” he explained.
In response to financial hitches, UNICEF is implementing measures such as reducing travel and optimising its workforce.
The director stressed the importance of efficient resource utilisation, acknowledging the dedication of staff working in Boko Haram rehabilitation camps and other areas within the state.
The Regional Director described his on-site assessment of the ongoing work as “very positive.”
He further stated, “The focus should be on effectively utilising available resources to address the population’s needs, rather than solely on the amount of funding.”
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