Sokoto, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to improve child welfare and enhance humanitarian emergency responses across its area of operations.

According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, the commitment was reiterated during a courtesy visit by the UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Mr. Charles Lolika, to the Headquarters of 8 Division. Representing the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General Ibikunle Ajose, the Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Abubakar Suru, emphasized the Division’s unwavering support for UNICEF’s life-saving initiatives.

“We recognize the critical role UNICEF plays in protecting vulnerable children and responding to emergencies,” Brigadier General Suru stated. “The 8 Division is fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of UNICEF personnel and facilitating the effective implementation of their programmes in our area of responsibility.”

In response, Mr. Lolika expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s consistent support, describing it as instrumental in enabling UNICEF to reach children in need. “This visit allows us to further strengthen our partnership, ensuring we have the access and support necessary to address critical issues like malnutrition and provide timely, coordinated emergency assistance,” he said.

Mr. Lolika noted that the renewed partnership would focus on enhancing data collection for more targeted interventions, maintaining safe operational environments for UNICEF staff, and jointly addressing the urgent needs of children affected by conflict and other crises.

This visit further solidifies the ongoing partnership between the 8 Division Nigerian Army and UNICEF, underscoring their shared commitment to building a safer and healthier future for Nigeria’s children.