By: Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced the appointment of Tech and Social Entrepreneur, Zephia Ovia-Ikem, as a UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network of influential leaders dedicated to promoting children’s rights and improving the lives of young people across the world.
The appointment, announced by UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, underscores UNICEF’s ongoing commitment to mobilizing private sector partnerships and investments that can drive positive change for children and young people in Nigeria.
According to Ms. Saeed, Ovia-Ikem’s inclusion in the NextGen network marks a significant boost to UNICEF’s advocacy and resource mobilization efforts in the country. “We are proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network of investors, philanthropists, and private sector leaders committed to advancing children’s rights and accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria,” she said.
Zephia Ovia-Ikem, who has been an active supporter of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) initiative since its inception, will play a key role in rallying business leaders around the needs and aspirations of Nigerian children and youth. Through her networks and platforms, she is expected to help raise awareness, attract investments, and champion innovative solutions that improve access to education, skills development, and economic opportunities.
In her remarks, Ovia-Ikem expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, emphasizing the importance of youth empowerment in national development. “Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future,” she said. “I am passionate to work alongside UNICEF to mobilize resources, networks, and commitment needed to ensure that every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and have access to sustainable pathways for better economic opportunities.”
The UNICEF NextGen initiative brings together a new generation of philanthropists and advocates who collaborate with UNICEF to accelerate solutions to challenges affecting children globally, particularly in the areas of education, health, and youth empowerment.
