UNICEF Enhances Health Leadership in Adamawa, Sokoto, Kwara

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), alongside Development Governance International (DGI) Consult, has strengthened the leadership, governance, and management capacities of health sector stakeholders in Adamawa, Sokoto, and Kwara States. This initiative aims to improve reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health and nutrition (RMNCAH+N) and gender-based violence (GBV) program outcomes.

The effort followed a series of workshops under the Enhancing Leadership, Governance and Management Capacities (ELGMC) project, which involved senior government officials, heads of health institutions, and other stakeholders. Dr. Emmanuel Emedo, UNICEF Health Systems Specialist, emphasized the necessity of strong leadership in translating investments into improved health outcomes.

The workshops adopted a competency-based approach, focusing on strategic planning, financial management, and data utilization. Participants developed a shared RMNCAH+N vision and a draft results framework to enhance accountability and guide program implementation.

In Kwara State, stakeholders noted the importance of strengthening local government leadership to sustain improvements in maternal and child health.