Child Poverty: Gombe, Adamawa, Bauchi Govt Pledge To Partner With UNICEF

From Paul Orude Bauchi

Admamawa, Bauchi and Gombe States have pledged continuous partnership with the United Nation’s Children Fund (UNICEF) to address the problem of child poverty in the North East.

They made this known in their separate goodwill messages during a two-day Media Dialogue organized by UNICEF Bauchi Field Office for media practitioners in Adamawa, Bauchi and Gombe, at Destination Hotel, Gombe..

Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Salihu Baba Alkali, commended UNICEF saying its sustained programmes and activities had significantly helped in rebuilding the North East sub- region which was devastated by Boko Haram insurgency.

He observed that despite its huge potentials, the North-East had been contending with poor human development Indicators in virtually all areas.

He pledged continuous partnership of the state government with UNICEF and other development partners to improve the well-bing of the people

The Commissioner lamented the displacement by insurgency led to influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the affected areas to Gombe Stat

Alkali believed that the Media Dialogue on Nigeria Child Poverty was in line with current developmental priorities of the north east saying it would be immensely contribute to an improved Child development.

“I commend UNICEF for their tireless support especial in the NE state of Gombe, Adamawa and Bauchi,” he said.

“In this regard, the Government and people of Gombe, Adamawa and Bauchi states are overwhelmed by this development as its timely to brainstorms and harness ideas on how to tackle the menace and reduce the indices of Child poverty in the region.

“The presence of this noble people from Bauchi. Adamawa in Gombe State at this time is a clear demonstration of the UNICEF administration’s drive.

“At this juncture, I wish to commend UNICEF for choosing Gombe State to be the host state for this dialogue. Translating concept to concrete results is not easy and indeed could be herculean. However, I wish to assure you of our governments’ full support and partnership to ensure maximum benefit for our Country”

He then urged all of the participants to deliberately and frankly take decisions and ensure that the objectives for which this dialogue was designed will translate to measurable result.

 “As we come together to discuss and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children in these regions, let us remember that every child deserves a fair chance at a bright future,” he said.

 “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.

“Through collaborative efforts and meaningful dialogue, we can work towards creating a better tomorrow for the children of Bauchi FO.

 “Let us amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

“Together, we can make a difference. Let us stand united in our commitment to combat child poverty and create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive”.

In his remark, the Permanent Secretary, Adamawa State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Enoch Amos said UNICEF has been consistence and impactful in changing lives in the subregion.

“As we come together to discuss and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children in these regions, let us remember that every child deserves a fair chance at a bright future,” Amos said.

It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.

“Through collaborative efforts and meaningful dialogue, we can work towards creating a better tomorrow for the children of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office states.

“Let us amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”

“Together, we can make a difference. Let us stand united in our commitment to combat child poverty and create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive”