UNFPA Pledges to Provide More Technical Support to Sokoto State

By Ismail Umar, Sokoto

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The United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA), has pledged more commitments to partner with sokoto state government to provides more technical support in the areas of health, education and among others.

Deputy Country Representative of UNFPA Nigeria, Mr. Koessan Kuawu, made the pledge when he paid a courtesy visit to Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, at government house.

Mr Kuawu restated that the visit by UNFPA to the governor was aimed at strengthening partnership that would benefits the entire population of the state.

He noted that the strategic focus areas identified by the UNFPA include health, education, and youth employment, aiming to contribute to the state’s economic development.

“The UNFPA advocates full investment in the health sector and girls’ education to strengthen economic growth.

“Our mission is to improve reproductive and maternal health globally, develop national healthcare strategies, and lead campaigns against gender-based violence, obstetric fistula, and female genital mutilation,” Kuawu said.

He added that the UNFPA has supported Sokoto State since 1997, providing resources for health facilities, infrastructure, and capacity-building initiatives.

Mr Kuawu also commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s commitment to counterpart funding and dedication to the healthcare sector in the state.

The Deputy Country Representative reaffirmed the UNFPA’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Sokoto state.

In his remarks, the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, expressed appreciation for UNFPA’s sustain support to state.

Governor Aliyu represented by his Deputy, Idris Gobir, emphasised that the state’s Nine-Points Agenda prioritises the health sector due to its crucial role in societal development.

“We believe that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without a robust healthcare system.

“The health sector consistently ranks second in our state budget allocations, reflecting our commitment to health initiatives,” he said.

The Governor reassured the agency that the state government would continue to provide enabling environment for more activities and interventions for sustainable development of the state.

Also at the state assembly, the Speaker, Tukur Bala, acknowledged the UNFPA’s contributions and seeks for more technical support.

“We have enhanced our capacity to ensure budget formulation that will improve the welfare of our people.

“Currently, the Assembly operates under a seven-point agenda, prioritising oversight functions to achieve better service delivery.

“With UNFPA’s technical support, we are confident in our ability to foster effective governance for the state,” he said.

The Speaker represented by his Deputy, Kabiru Ibrahim, also thanked the UNFPA representative for accepting the Assembly’s invitation and making time to visit the state.

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