UNICEF Calls for Investment in Nigeria's Social Workforce

At the 26th National Council on Women Affairs, Child Advancement and Social Development in Jalingo, Taraba State, Dr. Godwin Odo, a Child Protection Specialist from UNICEF, called for coordinated investment in Nigeria's social workforce. He emphasized the critical situation facing Nigerian children, with 67.5% living in multidimensionally poor families and six in ten experiencing violence.

Dr. Odo identified a significant workforce gap, estimating a need for 47,073 additional posts at an annual cost of ₦98.3 billion. He outlined three interconnected areas for workforce investment: welfare, child protection, and economic resilience.

His recommendations included improving service delivery through better supervision, transport, and technology, as well as competency-based training. Dr. Odo also pointed to existing frameworks such as the Nigerian Council for Social Work (Establishment) Act, 2022, and the Costed National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Children, advocating for a stronger social service workforce as a vital investment in child welfare and protection.