Army, UNICEF Partner To Combat Child Malnutrition In North West

The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has pledged closer collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to tackle malnutrition and improve emergency response in the North West.

A statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, said the partnership was strengthened during a visit by UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Mr. Charles Lolika, to the division’s headquarters.

According to Osoba, discussions centred on child welfare, protection of vulnerable groups, and enhanced humanitarian interventions in conflict-hit communities.

Speaking on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West Operation FASAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, the Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Abubakar Suru, assured UNICEF of the Army’s continued support.

“We recognize the vital role UNICEF plays in safeguarding children and responding to emergencies. The Division is fully committed to ensuring the safety of UNICEF personnel and the successful delivery of their programmes within our area of responsibility,” Suru said.

In his remarks, Mr. Lolika hailed the Army’s cooperation, describing it as critical to UNICEF’s outreach.

“The Nigerian Army’s support enables us to reach more children in need. This partnership will allow us to address urgent issues like malnutrition, improve data for targeted interventions, and create safe environments for our staff,” he stated.

Both parties emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building a safer and brighter future for children affected by conflict and humanitarian crises in the region.