Nigeria Launches Child-Centered Development Plan with UNICEF

The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka, announced the launch of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2026-2030, focusing on child-centered development. This initiative was disclosed during the FGN-UNICEF annual partnership meeting held in Abuja.

The NDP aims to invest in children's welfare as a strategic economic priority, ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Uzoka emphasized the government's commitment to integrating child-focused priorities into national budget frameworks.

The plan follows the introduction of the National Social Protection Policy, which aims to reduce poverty and strengthen social safety nets. UNICEF's representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, reiterated the organization's commitment to prioritizing vulnerable populations.

The meeting also highlighted the upcoming 2025 program that will integrate nutrition, water, sanitation, and education interventions across 200 high-burden communities. The initiative aims to address gaps in national data architecture to enable precise evidence-based policymaking.