REPORTER: EMEFIENA OKONKWO
United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF and Enugu state government have resolved to work together to combat poverty in all its dimensions.
The Enugu State Commissioner for Human Capital Development and Poverty Eradication, Professor Benedeth Okoli and Chief of Field Services UNICEF Nigeria, Judith Leveillee made the pledge at workshop organised by the state government supported by UNICEF as part of activities marking 2025 International day for the Eradication of Poverty.
The event, with the theme “Leave No One Behind: A collective Call to End Poverty ” brought together government officials, development partners, traditional leaders, and civil society organisations, who jointly advocated inclusive and sustainable approaches to poverty eradication.
The Enugu State Commissioner for Human Capital Development and Poverty Eradication noted that poverty goes beyond inability to feed, to include limited access to education, healthcare and social protection.
She stressed that poverty cannot be tackled by government alone, but requires holistic and concerted efforts.
To this end, she called on stakeholders including traditional rulers, communities, civil society groups, and international development partners to unite with government in taking meaningful actions to support vulnerable persons.
Also speaking, the Chief of Field Services UNICEF Nigeria, Judith Leveillee reiterated the organisation’s commitment to partnering with the Enugu State Government to tackle poverty, especially among children and families.
She stated that tackling poverty demands systems that protect, nurture, and empower.
The UNICEF Official emphasized the need to build institutions,embedding in trust, dignity, and respect for Human Rights while actively listening to and addressing the basic needs of families.
In a message on the occasion contribution, the Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs Ngozi Enih linked the high rate of gender-based violence in the country to poverty related issues.
She noted that poverty is particularly severe in rural communities and among persons with disabilities.
There were equally keynote Speeches from Commissioners of other Key Ministries including Agriculture and Mineral Resources, that of Health as well as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.
