The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have officially handed over upgraded climate-resilient health and educational facilities to the Jigawa State government.
The handover, aimed at improving access to basic services and addressing climate-related challenges, took place in Chamo Village, Dutse Local Government Area.
The initiative included the provision of essential medical equipment for Chamo Primary Health Care Centre, as well as educational and learning materials for pupils in both primary and post-primary schools across the state.
The programme is intended to enhance school enrollment, support staff in maintaining conducive working conditions, and strengthen the learning environment for children.
Speaking at the event, Cynthia Rowe, Development Director at FCDO, highlighted the purpose of the initiative.
She said, “The Climate Resilient Infrastructural Facilities for Basic Services (CRIBS) project, implemented by FCDO, UNICEF, and partners, is designed to address the challenges posed by climate change in Jigawa State.”
Rowe noted that Nigeria faces several climate hazards, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, and rising sea levels, which affect millions of people annually. She emphasised that Nigeria ranks second globally in terms of children facing climate-related risks, which directly threaten their ability to survive, grow, and access education.
UNICEF Country Representative, Mrs. Wafaa Saeed, commended the Jigawa State government for its commitment to improving the lives of women and children.
She stated that UNICEF would continue supporting the state on initiatives aimed at enhancing child welfare and added that a similar framework is being developed in collaboration with FCDO, other partners, and the governments of Kano and Jigawa states.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State described the project as part of the state’s strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change on schools and healthcare facilities.
He said, “Jigawa is among the states experiencing natural disasters such as flooding and drought, which affect schools and health centres. We appreciate the support of FCDO, UNICEF, and other partners and will continue to collaborate with them to improve the welfare of children, women, and the state as a whole.”
