Anambra Signs Agreement With UNICEF, Solicits Intervention In Critical Sectors

The Governor of Anambra State Chief Willie Obiano has signed a landmark Project Implementation Agreement (IPA) with the UNICEF with an appeal to the United Nation's agency to increase its intervention in critical sectors of the state especially in education, health, promotion of child welfare, youths, as well as in HIV and AIDS.

The Agreement which is the first of its kind between the agency and any state in Nigeria covers partnerships with specified work plan and collaboration in the next two years involving cash assistance, technical support, and supply of materials.

Making the case for more assistance, Governor Obiano told UNICEF that 'Anambra State has demonstrated zeal and commitment in the implementation of UNICEF programmes.

The State will be the first to complete the Solar Refrigeration for Immunization programme as the outstanding one hundred and ninety centres will be fully equipped soon.'

He assured that all funds given to the State would be judiciously utilized while a project Monitoring Committee would be in place to ensure that the deserved goals are achieved. Obiano equally said that he would soon embark on the inspection of UNICEF projects in the state to ensure that they are making the desired impact.

Earlier, the Chief of UNICEF 'A' Field Office, Mr. Charles Nzuki who signed on behalf of the agency said that UNICEF would spend S1.1million dollars within the period, and assured that the Agreement is a demonstration of the continued support of UNICEF to the state which is targeted at scaling up interventions that promote child survival, development and protection.

He commended the State for sustaining the strong partnership that contributed in keeping the state polio free for eight years.

Mr. Nzuki said that the new round of the programme would try to further reduce child mortality in the state from the current rate of hundred and eleven deaths per every one thousand births and the prevalence of HIV which stands at over 8 percent.

He assured that they would work with the line Ministries to identify priority areas where UNICEF could offer support to ensure that Anambra state government meets its development goals.