The United Nations Children’s Fund has appointed Zephia Ovia-Ikem, a Nigerian tech and entrepreneurship expert, as its Next Generation champion.

This was disclosed in a statement by Wafaa Saeed, representative of UNICEF Nigeria, on Thursday.

UNICEF NextGen is a group of young leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who commit their resources, resolve, and enthusiasm toward supporting UNICEF’s life-saving work.

NextGen members mobilise their networks and inspire their generation to take action on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable children.

Ms Saeed, however, said that Ms Ovia-Ikem would be joining a global network of investors, philanthropists, and private sector leaders committed to advancing children’s rights and accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria.

She noted that Ms Ovia-Ikem, an advocate for youth empowerment, had supported UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria initiative since its inception.

“I am proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF’s NextGen champion. As NextGen Champion, Zephia will rally business leaders around children’s and young people’s rights and needs.

“She will utilise her networks and platforms to create awareness and mobilise resources to help accelerate progress for UNICEF’s work across Nigeria,” she said.

Ms Saeed added that UNICEF would continue to promote the rights and well-being of every child in everything it does.

In response, Ms Ovia-Ikem said children and youths represented the greatest asset and brightest future of the country.

“I am passionate about working alongside UNICEF to mobilise resources, networks, and commitment. This will ensure that every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and have access to sustainable pathways for better economic opportunities,” she said.

(NAN)