The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has restated its determination to strengthen collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in a bid to improve child protection and bolster emergency response efforts in conflict-affected areas under its watch. This assurance was conveyed in a statement released on Wednesday by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Division.

The renewed pledge came after a courtesy visit to the Division’s headquarters by the UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Mr. Charles Lolika. During the meeting, discussions centered on enhancing child welfare, protecting vulnerable communities, and improving humanitarian support systems in regions affected by crises.

Representing the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation FASAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, the Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Abubakar Suru, stressed that the Army remained committed to working hand-in-hand with UNICEF. He emphasized that safeguarding children and ensuring the safe operations of UNICEF staff within the Division’s area of responsibility remained a top priority.

UNICEF’s representative, Lolika, expressed appreciation for the Army’s continuous support, describing it as essential to the agency’s ability to reach vulnerable children. He explained that the partnership would allow UNICEF to better address urgent issues such as malnutrition, provide timely humanitarian relief, and coordinate more effectively with stakeholders.

Lolika further highlighted that future collaboration would focus on improving data collection for targeted interventions, ensuring safe operational environments for UNICEF teams, and tackling the pressing needs of children affected by insecurity. Both sides agreed that the partnership reflects a mutual commitment to securing a brighter and safer future for Nigerian children, particularly those in crisis-affected areas.

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