The UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, says eight local government areas in Borno were left behind in immunisation.

The affected LGAs are Maiduguri Metropolitan, Damboa, Gubio, Jere, Konduga, Mafa, Monguno and Ngala.

Ms Munduate disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists in Maiduguri on Friday.

She said the eight LGAs were among the 100 LGAs in Nigeria with the highest number of unimmunised children in the country.

Ms Munduate, who was on a working visit to Borno, said she discussed development issues and the way forward with the Borno government and other partners in the state.

She said other areas discussed included school enrolment, acute malnutrition, issuance of birth certificates, nutrition, water and sanitation.

She lauded the state government for its commitment to building the resilience of citizens affected by the insurgency. She urged the media to intensify citizens’ mobilisation to ensure the safety of children by giving them education, healthcare and other services being provided.

“I met with Governor Babagana Zulum and applauded him on the excellent collaboration between his government and UNICEF in health, nutrition, protection, WASH and social protection of children in Borno.

“I extend my full support and commitment to the government and people of Borno,” Ms Munduate said.

The UNICEF representative said at least 1.4 million children living in conflict-prone areas in the region had been provided psychosocial support. 

(NAN)