The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has deepened its collaboration with media professionals in Kaduna to combat the rising number of out-of-school children in northern Nigeria.

This initiative also seeks to address broader challenges affecting child development in the region and the nation at large.

At a one-day workshop held in Zaria, Kaduna State, UNICEF’s Communication for Advocacy and Partnerships Specialist, Susan Akila, representing the Country Director, highlighted the media’s longstanding role as a critical ally in UNICEF’s mission.

“UNICEF recognizes that our goals cannot be achieved without the support of the media,” Akila stated.

“This partnership is not new but rather a reinforcement of an enduring relationship aimed at improving the lives of children and women by 2050.

”Akila stressed that UNICEF prioritizes the protection and promotion of children’s rights, including access to education, healthcare, self-expression, and opportunities for a brighter future.

The workshop gathered media executives to discuss strategies for addressing Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis.

UNICEF Kaduna Field Office’s Social and Behavioural Change Specialist, Ibrahim Mohammed, called for greater investment in education to ensure that every child is enrolled in and completes school.

“Our ultimate goal is for every Nigerian child to access and stay in school,” Mohammed explained.

“This is essential for the sustainable growth of the country.”

He also urged participants to champion efforts to reduce out-of-school children, promote immunizations, end open defecation, and advance birth registration.

Mohammed underscored the need to eliminate malnutrition, particularly stunting, which remains a significant issue among children.

UNICEF’s Kaduna Field Office reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government to address funding gaps in education and healthcare.“

In addressing funding challenges, UNICEF will continue advocating for improvements in these critical areas to benefit children nationwide,” Mohammed added.

Kaduna State’s Ministry of Education Director of Planning, Salisu Lawal, acknowledged the state’s progress in reducing the number of out-of-school children but noted persistent obstacles, such as poverty and school dropouts.

Lawal assured that the ministry is actively addressing these challenges.

Similarly, Alhaji Hamisu Abubakar, Director of the National Orientation Agency, Kaduna State, emphasized the media’s role in promoting education and safeguarding children’s rights.

The meeting was part of UNICEF’s broader efforts to help Nigeria achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education.

The event culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UNICEF and the Kaduna State Media Corporation, solidifying their partnership in addressing the educational crisis and promoting child welfare initiatives.