Federal Govt Unveils Child-Centred Development Plan In New Partnership With UNICEF

Minister of State, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite, has announced that, for the first time in a generation, Nigeria’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2026–2030 is being developed with children at its core.

The minister disclosed that with the support of UNICEF, the Ministry has recorded significant milestones that enhance its capacity to plan, budget, and deliver impactful outcomes for children across the country.

She made this known during the FGN/UNICEF annual partners meeting held in Abuja on Friday, according to a statement from the director of information at the ministry, Julie Osage-Jacob’s.

She said the federal government has also introduced a revised National Social Protection Policy. The policy provides a comprehensive framework to reduce poverty, strengthen social safety nets, and improve public financial management capacity across all states.

According to the minister, the NDP 2026–2030 recognizes that investing in children is not merely a social obligation but a strategic economic priority. She emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to fully integrating child-focused priorities into national budgets, sectoral plans, and performance frameworks.

“We envision a Nigeria where every child, regardless of birthplace, has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are building a $1 trillion economy driven by the talent and productivity of all Nigerians, including the youngest and most vulnerable,” she stated.

The UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, reiterated the organization’s commitment to prioritizing the most vulnerable populations. She emphasized the need to improve efficiency in resource deployment, enhance safety and security systems, and discourage unsustainable investments in national systems.

She charged the younger generation saying they have the ability to drive change and shape the future as they are also partners in this journey.

Earlier, director of International Cooperation Department, Samson Ebimaro, represented by deputy director Yakubu Abdullahi, reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Ministry and UNICEF. He noted that the collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of every Nigerian child.

He added that the meeting serves as a strategic platform to further strengthen cooperation and deepen existing partnerships between both institutions.